There is a shakeup happening, no doubt about that. According to multiple sources, including an AP News report, President Donald Trump signed an executive order that specifically targeted the security clearances of 51 former U.S. intelligence officials who had signed a letter in 2020 asserting that the Hunter Biden laptop saga exhibited characteristics typical of a Russian disinformation campaign. Which 51 52 people signed the letter in 2020 asserting that the Hunter Biden laptop saga exhibited characteristics typical of a Russian disinformation campaign? Wikipedia gives a list and says there are, in addition, nine former IC officers who cannot be named publicly. All 52 are listed in the executive order signed on January 20th, 2025. Two have passed away.
Based on the search results, it appears that a Newsweek article claimed to provide a full list of individuals whose security clearances were revoked by Trump, but it was updated hours later and now only contains a few names. Articles indicate that Trump revoked security details for several former officials, including Dr. Anthony Fauci, John Bolton, and Mike Pompeo, but there is no definitive list provided in the news media that we could find in time for this publication.
Fauci, Bolton, Pompeo: Full List of People Who Donald Trump Revoked Security Details For
Did Newsweek mess up and publish something at 2:49 PM that they were forced to change five hours later? It seems so. For those using chatGPT or the news only to search this, you should understand an important distinction.
US Security Clearance vs Security Detail
Security clearance refers to an authorization that allows an individual to access classified information or restricted areas after undergoing a thorough background check. It is granted based on an assessment of the individual’s trustworthiness and eligibility to handle sensitive information, with different levels such as Confidential, Secret, and Top Secret depending on the sensitivity of the information involved.
Security detail, on the other hand, refers to a protective service provided to individuals, often due to credible threats against their safety. This may include physical protection by law enforcement or private security personnel and is not directly related to access to classified information.
These two are independent. Having a clearance does not get you a security detail. Also, you can have a security detail without having a security clearance. Public figures, such as politicians or high-profile individuals, may receive a security detail for protection due to credible threats against their safety, even if they do not have access to classified information or do not require a security clearance for their role.
What US Security Clearance Does Trump Have?
The U.S. president automatically has access to classified information, including Top Secret materials, by virtue of the office they hold. The president does not undergo the same rigorous vetting process as other officials and technically does not require a formal security clearance. This access is inherent to the role, allowing the president to oversee national security matters effectively. The authority to classify and declassify information also resides with the president, making their access to classified information unique compared to other government officials who must go through established clearance processes.
January 20, 2025 Executive Orders
- 14145: Initial Rescissions of Harmful Executive Orders and Actions
- 14146: Restoring Freedom of Speech and Ending Federal Censorship
- 14147: Ending the Weaponization of the Federal Government
- 14148: Putting America First In International Environmental Agreements
- 14149: Application of Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act to TikTok
- 14150: Withdrawing the United States from the World Health Organization
- 14151: Restoring Accountability to Policy-Influencing Positions Within the Federal Workforce
- 14152: Holding Former Government Officials Accountable For Election Interference And Improper Disclosure Of Sensitive Governmental Information (This order is related to revoking security clearances.)
- 14153: Clarifying The Military’s Role In Protecting The Territorial Integrity Of The United States
- 14154: Unleashing American Energy
Reportedly (by ChatGPT) Affected Individuals
First we created a wonky list of people that ChatGPT said at one time or another had their security clearances revoked by President Trump in 2025. If you want to try clicking motorcycles and stairs and traffic lights for a few minutes, you may be able to get in to the list of actual Presidential Executive Orders here: ( https://unblock.federalregister.gov/request ) but I was blocked.
UPDATE: I got in to the actual Executive Order on the Whitehouse web site! The people with clearances actually revoked are highlighted in orange.
There are clearly people on this list below that ChatGPT got wrong, but we are publishing it to let people know not to trust public AI as a credible source. For example, ChatGPT said Dr. Fauci had his security clearance revoked even though it later acknowledged that there is no evidence of that, only that his security detail (something different) was removed. Here is the real list (names in red) of people who had their security clearances revoked by President Trump, along with a mashup of people A.I. threw in when asked the question multiple times.
Security Clearance Revocation List 2025
NOTE: This list is published exclusively on https://newsi8.com and if you are viewing it elsewhere you may not be able to see the font color which shows the real revokes vs. the A.I. wrong guesses.
Andrew McCabe: Deputy FBI Director, involved in investigations into Russian interference in the 2016 election while emphasizing transparency in law enforcement actions.
Andrew Liepman (Andy Liepman): Director of National Intelligence (DNI); Deputy Director, National Counterterrorism Center
Senior Intelligence Officer, Central Intelligence Agency; RAND Corporation, Senior Policy Analyst[10][11]
Anne Neuberger: Deputy National Security Advisor for Cyber and Emerging Technologies, focused on cybersecurity threats and oversaw the launch of the U.S. Cyber Trust Mark program to improve security standards for consumer products.
Brett Davis: Central Intelligence Agency (CIA); (Senior Intelligence Officer, Central Intelligence Agency); Deputy Director of the Special Activities Center for Expeditionary Operations, CIA; New North Ventures, Partner; [11] [12] Died in 2023; https://thecipherbrief.com/experts/brett-davis website=The Cipher Brief
Brian Hook: (Lost security detail) Chief aide to Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, involved in significant diplomatic negotiations regarding Iran, particularly during tensions over its nuclear program. “Pompeo and his top aide, Brian Hook, who have faced threats from Iran since they took hard-line stances on the Islamic Republic during Trump’s first administration, were told of the loss of protection on Wednesday evening.”[20]
C. Thomas Fingar: Director of National Intelligence (DNI); Chair, National Intelligence Council (2005–2008);
Deputy Director of National Intelligence for Analysis; Assistant Secretary for Bureau of Intelligence and Research (Intelligence and Research, Department of State); Stanford University, Payne Distinguished Lecturer; National Committee on United States–China Relations, Board of Directors[11]
Charles Allen: (Revoke unconfirmed) A distinguished former senior intelligence officer who served as the Chief of Intelligence for the Department of Homeland Security, where he focused on enhancing the nation’s security posture against evolving threats. With a robust background in intelligence, he previously held key positions at the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), including serving as the Deputy Director for Analysis. Allen has been instrumental in shaping national security policies and strategies, leveraging his extensive experience in counterterrorism and intelligence operations. He is also known for his work with the RAND Corporation as a Senior Policy Analyst, where he contributed to critical research and analysis on national security issues. His expertise has made him a sought-after voice in discussions about U.S. intelligence capabilities and homeland security challenges.
Chris Krebs: Director of CISA, declared the 2020 election secure after extensive reviews of election security measures implemented across states, countering claims of widespread fraud.
Chris Savos: Central Intelligence Agency (CIA); Senior Intelligence Officer, Central Intelligence Officer;[11]
Condoleezza Rice: Former Secretary of State, played a key role in shaping U.S.-Russia relations during her tenure, particularly regarding NATO expansion after the Cold War and U.S. policy during the Iraq War.
Cynthia Strand: Central Intelligence Agency (CIA); Deputy Assistant Director for Global Issues, Central Intelligence Agency; [11]
Dan Coats: Former Director of National Intelligence who provided assessments of global threats facing the U.S., including cybersecurity risks from Russia and China. Coats often contradicted Trump on issues like Russian interference in elections and the threat posed by North Korea.
David A. Vanell: Central Intelligence Agency (CIA); Senior Operations Officer, Central Intelligence Agency; [11]
David Axelrod: Senior advisor to President Obama focused on political strategy; emphasized transparency and accountability within government practices, particularly during election cycles. Axelrod played a key role in shaping the Obama administration’s messaging and outreach strategies.
David B. Buckley: Central Intelligence Agency (CIA); Inspector General, Central Intelligence Agency; Democratic Staff Director, House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence; Counterespionage Case Officer, United States Air Force; United States House Select Committee on the January 6 Attack, Staff Director;[11] https://www.cnn.com/2021/07/23/politics/david-buckley-january-6-committee-accused-retaliation-whistleblower/index.html title=Staff director for 1/6 committee accused of retaliating against whistleblower
David Ignatius: American journalist and novelist, currently serving as an associate editor and columnist for The Washington Post. He previously worked at The Wall Street Journal where he covered significant beats, including the CIA and Middle Eastern affairs. Ignatius is also a bestselling author of several novels, including Body of Lies, which was adapted into a film directed by Ridley Scott. In a 2014 article, Ignatius provided an in-depth analysis of Putin’s strengths and weaknesses. In addition to his journalism, he has taught at the Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University and has been recognized for his insights into foreign affairs and intelligence matters.
David Morens: Senior advisor at NIAID who played a role in shaping public health responses during health crises, including pandemic preparedness efforts related to COVID-19. Morens has been instrumental in advising on strategies to combat infectious diseases and improve public health infrastructure.
David Petraeus: Former CIA Director and Army General known for his leadership during the Iraq War and advocating for counterinsurgency strategies to win local support. Petraeus’s insights into military strategy and intelligence operations have made him a prominent figure in discussions about U.S. foreign policy.
David Priess: Central Intelligence Agency (CIA); (Analyst and Manager, Central Intelligence Agency); PDB Briefer, Central Intelligence Agency; Michael V. Hayden Center for Intelligence, Policy, and International Security, George Mason University, Senior Fellow [11] https://www.lawfaremedia.org/contributors/dpriess title=David Priess;
David S. Cariens: Central Intelligence Agency (CIA); Intelligence Analyst, Central Intelligence Agency;[11]
David Sanger: A prominent journalist for The New York Times, recognized for his extensive reporting on national security issues, including Russian interference in U.S. elections and its implications for democracy. Over his 40-year career, he has been involved in three Pulitzer Prize-winning teams and has authored several influential books on foreign policy and cybersecurity, such as “The Perfect Weapon” and “New Cold Wars.” Sanger’s investigative journalism has shaped public discourse on critical national security matters, making him a significant voice in contemporary media.
David Shulkin: served as the Secretary of Veterans Affairs under Trump, where he focused on improving healthcare services for veterans. His tenure was marked by efforts to reform the VA system, although he faced challenges related to political pressures and budget constraints.
David Terry: Central Intelligence Agency (CIA); Chairman of the National Intelligence Collection Board; Chief of the PDB, Central Intelligence Agency; PDB Briefer to Vice President Dick Cheney, Central Intelligence Agency; [11]
Don Hepburn: Central Intelligence Agency (CIA); Senior National Security Executive; Boanerges Solutions, President; [11]
Douglas H. Wise (Doug Wise): Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA), Deputy Director Defense Intelligence Agency, Senior CIA Operations Officer[11]
Dr. Anthony Fauci: (No Evidence of Clearance Revoked) A leading infectious disease expert who became a prominent figure during the COVID-19 pandemic. He provided essential public health guidance and advocated for vaccination efforts, playing a crucial role in shaping the U.S. response to the health crisis. Fauci’s expertise and visibility made him a trusted source of information, although he faced significant political scrutiny throughout the pandemic. Dr. Anthony Fauci was not one of the 51 individuals whose security clearances were revoked by President Trump. Instead, Trump ended Fauci’s federal security detail on January 24, 2025, citing that former government officials cannot have security protection indefinitely after leaving their roles. Fauci had faced numerous death threats during his time as a prominent figure in the COVID-19 response, leading to the need for security measures, which had been renewed under the Biden administration due to ongoing threats against him.
Emile Nakhleh: Central Intelligence Agency (CIA); Director of the Political Islam Strategic Analysis Program, Central Intelligence Agency; Senior Intelligence Analyst, Central Intelligence Agency; University of New Mexico, Director of National Security Programs;[11] http://news.unm.edu/newsmedia/experts/emile-nakhleh title=Emile Nakhleh;
Evelyn Farkas: served as the Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense and was vocal about the threat of Russian interference prior to the 2016 election. She emphasized the need for vigilance against foreign influence in U.S. politics and played a role in advising on defense policy regarding Ukraine during its annexation by Russia. Farkas’s insights into national security issues have made her a respected figure in discussions about foreign policy.
Fiona Hill: A former senior director for Europe and Russia on the National Security Council, Hill testified during Trump’s impeachment inquiry regarding Ukraine. Her insights into Russian influence operations were pivotal in understanding contemporary geopolitical dynamics.
Gerald A. O’Shea: Central Intelligence Agency (CIA); (Senior Operations Officer, Central Intelligence Agency); Served four tours as Chief of Station, Central Intelligence Agency; [11]
Glenn S. Gerstell (Glenn Gerstell): National Security Agency (NSA); General Counsel, National Security Agency; Beacon Global Strategies; [11] https://bgsdc.com/team_member/glenn-gerstell/ title=Beacon Global Strategies date=September 16, 2022
Greg Tarbell: Central Intelligence Agency (CIA); Deputy Executive Director, Central Intelligence Agency; Analyst of the Soviet Union and Russia, Central Intelligence Agency; [11]
Gregory F. Treverton (Greg Treverton): Director of National Intelligence (DNI); Chair, National Intelligence Council; University of Southern California, Professor; [11]
H.R. McMaster: (Tensions with Trump, but Not Revoked) A former National Security Advisor known for his emphasis on military readiness and the importance of alliances in addressing global security challenges. His tenure focused on strengthening NATO and countering threats from adversarial nations, advocating for strategic military approaches to complex international issues.
James B. Bruce: Central Intelligence Agency (CIA); Senior Intelligence Officer, Central Intelligence Agency; Senior Intelligence Officer, National Intelligence Council; RAND Corporation, Adjunct Researcher; https://www.rand.org/pubs/authors/b/bruce_james_b.html title=James B. Bruce – Publications; [11]
James Baker: A former government official who served as the General Counsel for the FBI, where he played a crucial role in national security investigations and prosecutions, including matters related to the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA). He joined the FBI in 2014 and was involved in high-profile cases, including the investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election. Baker testified during the trial of attorney Michael Sussmann, where he described a meeting concerning allegations of connections between the Trump campaign and Russia, asserting that Sussmann misled him about his client’s identity. In December 2017, Baker was reassigned from his role as General Counsel amid scrutiny and later resigned in May 2018. Following his departure from the FBI, he joined the Brookings Institution and has since worked in various roles, including at Twitter, where he was fired by Elon Musk in December 2022. Baker has also taught national security law at Harvard Law School and continues to contribute to discussions on cybersecurity and intelligence policy.
James R. Clapper: Director of National Intelligence DNI (2010–2017) under President Obama, where he was responsible for overseeing the U.S. intelligence community. Clapper has been vocal about his concerns regarding Trump’s actions and their implications for national security. He testified before Congress about Russian interference in the 2016 election, emphasizing the need for vigilance against foreign influence and accountability within intelligence assessments. His insights have been crucial in understanding the dynamics of U.S. intelligence operations and the challenges posed by foreign adversaries. Other Positions: Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence, Director of the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency, Director of the Defense Intelligence Agency, CNN National Security Analyst. [11]
James Comey: FBI Director known for overseeing investigations into Russian interference in the 2016 election and his role in the investigation into Hillary Clinton’s emails. His tenure was marked by significant controversies, including his public announcement about Clinton’s email investigation shortly before the election, which many believe influenced voter perceptions. Comey has since become a prominent critic of Trump’s approach to law enforcement and national security.
James Mattis: served as Secretary of Defense, where he promoted military readiness and alliances, particularly during discussions about NATO’s role in global security. Known for his strategic insights and emphasis on maintaining strong international partnerships, Mattis’s leadership was characterized by a commitment to traditional defense policies amidst evolving global threats.
Janice Cariens: Central Intelligence Agency (CIA); Operational Support Officer, Central Intelligence Agency; [11]
Jeffrey Clark: An American lawyer who served as the Assistant Attorney General for the Environment and Natural Resources Division at the U.S. Department of Justice from 2018 to 2021. He became a controversial figure for his involvement in efforts to support then-President Donald Trump’s attempts to overturn the 2020 presidential election results, including being considered for the position of acting Attorney General. After resigning on January 14, 2021, he faced scrutiny as an unindicted co-conspirator in federal investigations related to election interference and was indicted in August 2023 under the Georgia RICO Act. There are indications that he held a presidential security clearance during his tenure, but specific details about its revocation are not provided in the available information.
Jeremy B. Bash (Jeremy Bash) Central Intelligence Agency (CIA); Chief of Staff, Central Intelligence Agency; Chief of Staff, Department of Defense; Chief Counsel, House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence; Beacon Global Strategies, Managing Director[11]
John D. Tullius (John Tullius): Central Intelligence Agency (CIA); Senior Intelligence Officer, Central Intelligence Agency; Naval Postgraduate School, National Intelligence Chair; https://www.thecipherbrief.com/experts/john-d-tullius title=John D. Tullius[11]
John E. McLaughlin (John McLaughlin): Signed a controversial letter regarding Hunter Biden’s laptop, contributing to discussions about intelligence integrity. Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), Acting Director of the Central Intelligence Agency (Director, Central Intelligence Agency (2004)); Deputy Director of the Central Intelligence Agency; Director of Analysis, Central Intelligence Agency; Director, Slavic and Eurasian Analysis, Central Intelligence Agency; Johns Hopkins University Distinguished Practitioner-in-Residence[11]
John Kelly: Served as Secretary of Homeland Security, where he advocated for disciplined governance practices and implemented controversial immigration policies, including the zero tolerance policy that led to family separations at the southern border. His tenure was marked by significant public backlash over these practices, which raised ethical concerns regarding the treatment of migrants.
John L. Clancy: Former Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for East Asia, involved in shaping defense strategies related to U.S.-China relations during his tenure. His work focused on enhancing military readiness and fostering diplomatic ties in a region marked by complex geopolitical dynamics.
John H. Moseman (John Moseman): Central Intelligence Agency (CIA); Chief of Staff, Central Intelligence Agency; Director of Congressional Affairs, Central Intelligence Agency; Minority Staff Director, United States Senate Select Committee on Intelligence[11]
John O. Brennan (John Brennan): (CIA officer). Director of the Central Intelligence Agency (2013–2017). Other positions: White House Homeland Security and Counterterrorism Advisor; Director, Terrorism Threat Integration Center; Analyst and Operations Officer, Central Intelligence Agency; NBC News and MSNBC National Security Analyst. This revocation is from a former action by Trump. On August 15, 2018, White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders announced that Trump had decided to strip Brennan of his clearance. [18] A former CIA Director vocal about the systematic campaign conducted by Russia to interfere in the 2016 U.S. presidential election, which included hacking and disinformation efforts. Frequently criticized Trump, expressing concerns about the politicization of intelligence and the implications for national security. “Brennan’s insights into Russian interference have been pivotal in shaping public understanding of foreign threats to U.S. democracy.”
John R. Bolton (John Bolton): Trump’s former National Security Advisor, known for his hawkish foreign policy views. Served as National Security Advisor and authored a memoir detailing his experiences in the Trump administration, including national security decisions surrounding Iran and North Korea. Bolton’s relationship with Trump soured over policy disagreements, leading to his dismissal. He has since been critical of Trump’s foreign policy approaches, particularly regarding alliances and international agreements.
John Sipher: Central Intelligence Agency (CIA); (Senior Operations Officer, Central Intelligence Agency); Deputy Chief of Russian Operations, Central Intelligence Agency; Atlantic Council, Nonresident Senior Fellow; https://www.atlanticcouncil.org/expert/john-sipher/ title=John Sipher; [11]
Jonna H. Mendez (Jonna Hiestand Mendez): Central Intelligence Agency (CIA); Technical Operations Officer, Central Intelligence Agency[11]
Kent Harrington: Central Intelligence Agency (CIA); National Intelligence Officer for East Asia, Central Intelligence Agency; Director of Public Affairs, Central Intelligence Agency; Chief of Station, Central Intelligence Agency; Analyst, Central Intelligence Agency[11]
Kristin Wood: Central Intelligence Agency (CIA); Senior Intelligence Officer, Central Intelligence Agency; PDB Briefer, Central Intelligence Agency; Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs, Non-Resident Fellow;[11] https://www.belfercenter.org/person/kristin-wood title=Kristin Wood date=July 5, 2023
Kirstjen Nielsen: was Secretary of Homeland Security known for implementing controversial immigration policies aimed at reducing illegal immigration at the southern border. Her tenure included family separation practices that drew significant public backlash, raising questions about human rights and ethical governance.
Larry Pfeiffer: Central Intelligence Agency (CIA); Chief of Staff, Central Intelligence Agency; Director, White House Situation Room; Michael V. Hayden Center for Intelligence, Policy, and International Security; George Mason University, Director[11]
Leon E. Panetta: is a former CIA Director (2009–2011) and Secretary of Defense known for overseeing critical military operations, including the Navy SEAL raid that killed Osama bin Laden. His extensive experience in national security has made him a respected voice in defense matters. Throughout his career, Panetta has advocated for intelligence sharing among allies, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in addressing global security challenges. He served in various high-level government roles, including as White House Chief of Staff and a U.S. Representative, and co-founded the Panetta Institute for Public Policy to promote public service and civic engagement.[11]
Lisa Monaco: served as Deputy National Security Advisor, focusing on enhancing cybersecurity measures within federal agencies while addressing emerging threats to national security. Her leadership was instrumental in shaping policies to protect critical infrastructure and respond to evolving cyber threats.
Lisa Page: A former FBI lawyer who played a significant role in the investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election. Her text messages with Peter Strzok, which included critical comments about Trump, became a focal point during congressional hearings, leading to accusations of bias against both officials. Following these events, Page has spoken out about the political attacks she faced and has emphasized that her work was conducted with integrity despite the scrutiny.
Marc Polymeropoulos: Central Intelligence Agency (CIA); (Senior Operations Officer, Central Intelligence Agency); Acting Chief of Operations for Europe and Eurasia, Central Intelligence Agency; Atlantic Council, Nonresident Senior Fellow;[11] https://www.atlanticcouncil.org/expert/marc-polymeropoulos/ title=Marc Polymeropoulos;
Michael Atkinson: Former Inspector General of the Intelligence Community, where he gained prominence for alerting Congress about a whistleblower complaint regarding President Trump’s interactions with Ukraine. This complaint alleged abuse of power and ultimately contributed to Trump’s first impeachment. Atkinson faced backlash for his actions and was dismissed by Trump in April 2020, raising concerns about the independence and accountability of inspectors general within the government.
Michael Chertoff: former Secretary of Homeland Security known for advocating post-9/11 security measures while addressing civil liberties concerns related to surveillance programs. During his tenure from 2005 to 2009, he emphasized the importance of national security while balancing civil liberties, particularly in the context of the USA PATRIOT Act. Chertoff’s leadership involved implementing enhanced security protocols and responding to the challenges posed by terrorism, while also facing criticism for policies that some viewed as infringing on individual rights. His background includes serving as a federal judge and a federal prosecutor, where he was involved in significant national security cases, including the investigation of the 9/11 attacks. After leaving government service, Chertoff co-founded The Chertoff Group, focusing on risk management and security consulting.Michael Flynn: Director of National Security, advocated for aggressive military action against ISIS during his tenure before resigning over misleading statements about contacts with Russia.
Michael G. Vickers (Mike Vickers): United States Department of Defense (DoD); Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence (2011–2015); Operations Officer, Central Intelligence Agency; BAE Systems Board of Directors[11]
Michael J. Morell: a former Acting Director (2012–2013) and Deputy Director of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), known for his extensive experience in national security and intelligence. He served as the CIA’s presidential daily briefer to George W. Bush, including on September 11, 2001. Morell played a significant role in counterterrorism efforts and was involved in the operation that led to the death of Osama bin Laden. He has authored the book The Great War of Our Time, which details his three-decade career at the CIA and addresses the agency’s counterterrorism missions. After leaving the CIA, Morell became a senior counselor at Beacon Global Strategies LLC, focusing on geopolitical risk and national security analysis. Other positions: Director of Analysis, Central Intelligence Agency, Beacon Global Strategies Senior Counselor[11]
Michael V. Hayden: a retired four-star general who served as the Director of both the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) (2006–2009) and the National Security Agency (NSA). He emphasized cybersecurity as a critical component of national defense, particularly following incidents like Russian interference in U.S. elections. During his tenure, he was involved in controversial surveillance programs post-9/11, which raised significant civil liberties concerns. Hayden’s clearance was later revoked under Trump as part of a broader retribution against intelligence officials who opposed him. Today, he continues to contribute to national security discussions as a visiting professor and analyst. Other positions: George Mason University Visiting Professor[11]
Michael McFaul: U.S. Ambassador to Russia, advocated for democracy promotion and publicly criticized Putin’s regime amid rising tensions between the U.S. and Russia.
Michael McKinley: Chief of Staff to Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, involved in shaping U.S. foreign policy towards Latin America and resigned amid concerns over the administration’s handling of foreign policy issues.
Mick Mulvaney: Former Acting Chief of Staff involved in budget negotiations that highlighted divisions within government spending priorities during his tenure. He oversaw key fiscal discussions and was known for his outspoken approach to budget management.
Mike Pompeo: (Lost security detail) Former Secretary of State who played a crucial role in shaping U.S.-China relations and was involved in negotiations regarding North Korea’s nuclear program. Nikki Haley: Former U.N. Ambassador who advocated for strong U.S.-Israel relations at the United Nations while promoting human rights initiatives globally during her tenure. Rick Grenell: Former Acting Director of National Intelligence known for his outspoken support of Trump’s policies and focus on strengthening U.S.-European relations amid political tensions surrounding election integrity issues.[20]
Nada G. Bakos: Central Intelligence Agency (CIA); Analyst and Targeting Officer, Central Intelligence Agency; Foreign Policy Research Institute, Senior Fellow; https://www.fpri.org/contributor/nada-bakos/ title=Nada Bakos – Foreign Policy Research Institute; [11]
Nicholas J. Rasmussen (Nick Rasmussen): Director of National Intelligence (DNI); Director, National Counterterrorism Center (2014–2017)[11]
Nick Shapiro: Central Intelligence Agency (CIA); Deputy Chief of Staff and Senior Advisor to the Director, Central Intelligence Agency; Tulane University; https://sopa.tulane.edu/about-sopa/advisors-faculty-staff/nick-shapiro title=Nick Shapiro date=July 17, 2023;[11]
Pamela Purcilly (Pam Purcilly): Central Intelligence Agency (CIA); (Deputy Director of Analysis, Central Intelligence Agency); Director of the Office of Russian and European Analysis, Central Intelligence Agency; PDB Briefer to President George W. Bush, Central Intelligence Agency; [11]
Patty Patricia A. Brandmaeir (Patty Brandmaier): Central Intelligence Agency (CIA); (Senior Intelligence Officer, Central Intelligence Agency); Deputy Associate Director for Military Affairs, Central Intelligence Agency; Deputy Director of Congressional Affairs, Central Intelligence Agency; Died in 2023; [11] https://www.northjersey.com/obituaries/ber115027;
Paul R. Kolbe (Paul Kolbe): Central Intelligence Agency (CIA); Senior Operations Officer, Central Intelligence Agency; Chief, Central Eurasia Division, Central Intelligence Agency; Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs, Senior Fellow; https://www.belfercenter.org/person/paul-kolbe title=Paul Kolbe date=September 20, 2023; [11]
Peter L. Corsell (Peter Corsell): Central Intelligence Agency (CIA); Analyst, Central Intelligence Agency; I Squared Capital, Partner; [11]
Peter Strzok: served as the Deputy Assistant Director of the FBI and was a key figure in the investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election as part of Special Counsel Robert Mueller’s team. His involvement became controversial after text messages expressing personal opinions about Trump were revealed, leading to his removal from the investigation. Strzok later testified before Congress, defending his integrity and asserting that his personal views did not affect his professional conduct. He subsequently filed a wrongful termination lawsuit against the FBI and DOJ.
Richard A. Clarke: an American national security expert and former government official who served as the Counterterrorism Czar from 1998 to 2003, overseeing U.S. counterterrorism efforts during critical periods, including the September 11 attacks. He held various positions within the U.S. government, including serving on the National Security Council under Presidents Clinton and Bush, where he was a key advisor on terrorism and cybersecurity issues. Clarke gained widespread public attention for his memoir, Against All Enemies, which criticized the Bush administration’s counterterrorism policies and approach to Iraq. After leaving government service, he has continued to be an influential voice on national security matters and has worked with various organizations to enhance cybersecurity initiatives.
Richard H. Ledgett Jr. (Rick Ledgett): Rick Ledgett served as the Deputy Director of the National Security Agency (NSA) (2014–2017). Oversaw NSA’s 24/7 Threat Operations Center, which focused on identifying and countering cyber threats to national security. Ledgett was also the first National Intelligence Manager for Cyber, advising the Director of National Intelligence on cyber matters and leading the development of the first National Intelligence Strategy for Cyber. His contributions to national security were recognized when he received the National Security Medal from President Trump. Other Positions: M&T Bank, Board of Directors[11]
Robert Cardillo: Robert Cardillo was the Director of the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) from October 2014 until February 2019. During his tenure, he led efforts to modernize NGA’s global geospatial intelligence mission, enhancing the agency’s capabilities in providing critical intelligence support to national security operations. Prior to his role at NGA, Cardillo served as Deputy Director for Intelligence Integration at the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, where he managed and delivered over 1,400 President’s Daily Briefs. His extensive experience within the U.S. Intelligence Community included various leadership positions, notably as Deputy Director of the Defense Intelligence Agency.
Robert Gates: an American intelligence analyst and former government official who served as the 22nd United States Secretary of Defense from 2006 to 2011, appointed by President George W. Bush and retained by President Barack Obama. With a distinguished career spanning over 40 years, Gates held key positions in the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), including Director of Central Intelligence under President George H.W. Bush. He played a significant role in shaping U.S. defense and intelligence policies, particularly during the Iraq War and the post-9/11 era. Gates is also known for his candid assessments of military strategy and has authored several books on national security matters.
Robert O’Brien: Engaged in foreign policy decisions regarding China and Iran while serving as National Security Advisor, focusing on economic sanctions and diplomatic efforts.
Robert Wilkie: Focused on veterans’ healthcare issues while serving as Secretary of Veterans Affairs amid ongoing challenges within the VA system.
Rodney Snyder: Central Intelligence Agency (CIA); Chief of Staff, Central Intelligence Agency; Director of Intelligence Programs, National Security Council; Chief of Station, Central Intelligence Agency[11]
Roger George (Roger Zane George): Central Intelligence Agency (CIA); National Intelligence Officer; Occidental College, Professor[11]
Ronald A. Marks (Ron Marks): Central Intelligence Agency (CIA); Officer, Central Intelligence Agency; Twice former staff of the Republican Majority Leader; George Mason University, Visiting Professor[11]
Russell E. Travers (Russ Travers, Russell Travers) Director of National Intelligence (DNI); Acting Director, National Counterterrorism Center (2018–2020); Deputy Director, National Counterterrorism Center; Analyst of the Soviet Union and Russia, Defense Intelligence Agency; Deputy Homeland Security Advisor[11]
Sally Yates: Former Acting Attorney General who was dismissed by Trump for refusing to enforce his travel ban. Yates has been an outspoken critic of Trump’s policies and actions regarding justice and national security.
Samantha Power: Advocated for human rights initiatives; emphasized humanitarian interventions during her tenure at the United Nations, particularly in response to crises like Syria.
Sebastian Gorka: Involved in national security discussions focusing on counterterrorism strategies during his time in the Trump administration.
Stephen B. Slick (Stephen Slick): Central Intelligence Agency (CIA); Senior Director for Intelligence Programs, National Security Council; Senior Operations Office, Central Intelligence Agency; University of Texas at Austin, Director of Intelligence Studies Project[11]
Steven L. Hall: Central Intelligence Agency (CIA); (Senior Intelligence Officer, Central Intelligence Agency); Chief of Russian Operations, Central Intelligence Agency; CNN contributor[11]
Susan Rice: served as National Security Advisor under President Obama, where she was involved in key foreign policy decisions, including responses to the Syrian civil war and the Benghazi attack. She faced significant criticism from Republicans regarding her statements on Benghazi and became a target for political attacks during Trump’s presidency, particularly concerning her role in unmasking individuals during intelligence operations. Rice’s extensive experience in foreign policy has made her a prominent figure in discussions about national security and diplomacy.
Timothy D. Kilbourn: Central Intelligence Agency (CIA); Dean, Sherman Kent School of Intelligence Analysis, Central Intelligence Agency; PDB Briefer to President George W. Bush, Central Intelligence Agency[11]
Tom Bossert: a former Homeland Security Advisor who played a key role in shaping responses to national security threats, particularly in cybersecurity. He was involved in developing strategies to address high-profile incidents, such as the Colonial Pipeline ransomware attack. Prior to this role, Bossert served as Deputy Homeland Security Advisor under President George W. Bush and was instrumental in co-authoring the 2007 National Strategy for Homeland Security. His extensive experience in both public service and private sector risk management has positioned him as a leading voice on U.S. cybersecurity operations and policy. After leaving government, he became President of Trinity Cyber and continues to contribute to discussions on national security and cybersecurity issues.
Tom Cotton: Vocal about national security issues; has advocated for strong military policies regarding threats from adversaries like China and Iran.
Victoria Nuland: Instrumental in U.S.-Ukraine relations during her time as Assistant Secretary of State, particularly during the Ukraine crisis following Russia’s annexation of Crimea.
William Sebastian Cohen: an American lawyer, author, and politician. A moderate Republican, Cohen served as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives from 1973 to 1979 and then as a U.S. Senator from 1979 to 1997. He held the position of Secretary of Defense from 1997 to 2001 under President Bill Clinton, where he was known for his collaborative approach with military leaders and his moderate stance on various issues. Cohen has authored several books and has been involved in public discourse on national security and international relations.
William McRaven: Former Admiral and Navy SEAL Commander celebrated for overseeing the operation that killed Osama bin Laden and advocating for special operations forces in counterterrorism efforts.
Winston P. Wiley (Winston Wiley): Central Intelligence Agency (CIA); Director of Analysis, Central Intelligence Agency; Chief, Counterterrorism Center, Central Intelligence Agency[11]
Context and Implications
Trump’s actions marked an unprecedented intervention in the security clearance process, reflecting deep divisions within U.S. politics and national security frameworks. Legal experts noted that no other president had publicly targeted former intelligence officials in this manner, raising concerns about the implications for accountability and transparency within government institutions.
The revocation of clearances for these individuals not only served as a punitive measure but also aimed to silence dissenting voices within the intelligence community. Critics argued that these actions undermined the integrity of national security processes and set a dangerous precedent for future administrations.
Conclusion
The revocation of security clearances and protections for these key figures during Trump’s presidency highlights the intersection of politics and national security in contemporary governance. As these former officials navigate their new status without government protection or clearance, the long-term implications for U.S. intelligence operations and public trust remain significant. This episode underscores how political dynamics can influence national security matters, shaping both public perception and institutional trust in the intelligence community moving forward.
Read More
[1] https://www.pbs.org/newshour/politics/trump-moves-to-revoke-clearances-of-ex-intel-officials-who-signed-letter-on-hunter-biden-laptop
[2] https://www.cbsnews.com/news/trump-sebastian-gorka/
[3] https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/national-security/trumps-canceling-scores-security-clearances-unprecedented-rcna189245
[4] https://www.govexec.com/transition/2025/01/trump-wants-faster-security-clearance-process-too/402365/
[5] https://www.cnn.com/2025/01/20/politics/trump-revokes-security-clearances-former-officials-hunter-biden-laptop-letter/index.html
[6] https://www.lawfaremedia.org/article/presidential-action-on-security-clearance-for-white-house-employees
[7] https://apnews.com/article/trump-pompeo-hook-iran-security-protections-987ca371756f48028ebd34ca7111f1c5
[8] https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2025/01/22/trump-security-clearance-risks/
[9] https://www.newsweek.com/full-list-people-donald-trump-revoked-security-details-2020601
[10] https://foreignpolicy.com/author/andrew-liepman/ title=Andrew Liepman – Foreign Policy date=April 18, 2013
[11] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hunter_Biden_laptop_letter
[12] https://www.newnorthvc.com/brettdavis title=Brett Davis;
Citations:
[13] https://www.opb.org/article/2025/01/21/trump-moves-to-revoke-clearances-of-ex-intel-officials-who-signed-letter-on-hunter-biden-laptop/
[14] https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/1/23/trump-pulls-security-protections-for-mike-pompeo-john-bolton
[15] https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/01/memorandum-to-resolve-the-backlog-of-security-clearances-for-executive-office-of-the-president-personnel/
[16] https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/elections/2025/01/21/trump-security-clearance-intelligence-officials/77836191007/
[17] https://www.lawfaremedia.org/article/presidential-action-on-security-clearance-for-white-house-employees
[18] https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-45203277
[19] Holding_Former_Government_Officials_Accountable (pdf)
[20] https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/jan/26/mike-pompeo-trump-revokes-security-detail-iran-threats