Questions Over US Security Clearances

Nepotism and rejection of evidence and expert opinions characterize the Trump administration. The New York Times reports that the president ordered his chief of staff to grant top security clearances to Jared Kushner, despite numerous concerns raised by security, law-enforcement, intelligence and legal staff. Trump and his family have previously denied any clearance shortcuts. John Kelly, former chief of staff, “did not believe it was appropriate to overrule the security clearance process,” reports the Times. Unqualified staff members and compromised security clearances pose a threat for the United States and its many allies around the world. “The U.S. expends $30 billion/year in the intelligence budget, closely surveilling the world – by air, phone, and other hi-tech means, and engaging in myriad covert operations,” notes the Institute of Policy Studies, a think tank that has long criticized covert operations that support regressive regimes or interfere with democratic elections. “The intelligence apparatus is designed to promote U.S. control rather than cooperation or democracy.” The Trump administration has expressed more admiration for strongmen, like Vladimir Putin of Russia rather than Emmanuel Macron, Angela Merkel or Theresa May, leaders of nations that are close allies. Close cooperation on intelligence with allies contributes to security, analysts note, and US intelligence in the wrong hands is harmful for all, including allies and operatives working toward peace and democracy. – YaleGlobal