Trump Revokes Biden’s Security Clearance, Citing 2021 Precedent
President Donald Trump announced he is revoking Joe Biden’s security clearance and access to daily intelligence briefings, citing a precedent set by his predecessor in 2021. The move, revealed in a Truth Social post on Friday, marks an escalation in political tensions between the two leaders.
“There is no need for Joe Biden to continue receiving access to classified information,” Trump wrote, adding his signature phrase, “JOE, YOU’RE FIRED.”
Trump’s decision follows his earlier revocation of security clearances for more than four dozen former intelligence officials, whom he accused of influencing the 2020 election in Biden’s favor. He justified Biden’s removal by referencing a Justice Department inquiry into Biden’s handling of classified documents. While the investigation concluded that Biden would not face charges, it did note concerns about his memory—something Trump seized upon as a reason to revoke his access.
“Biden set this precedent in 2021,” Trump wrote, “when he instructed the Intelligence Community (IC) to stop the 45th President of the United States (ME!) from accessing details on national security.”
Biden’s 2021 decision was unprecedented, marking the first time a former president was denied classified intelligence briefings. At the time, Biden justified the move by citing Trump’s “erratic behavior”, referencing concerns about his role in the January 6th Capitol riot and his handling of sensitive information.
Since returning to office, Trump has taken additional steps to strip security clearances from Biden administration officials. While some see the move as political payback, others argue it aligns with long-standing security protocols that limit classified access for former officials.
As political and legal battles continue to define Trump’s second term, the revocation of Biden’s security clearance adds another layer of contention between the two leaders.
