Priyanka Tiwari
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In a move seen as political payback, U.S. President Donald Trump has decided to revoke former President Joe Biden’s access to government secrets, effectively ending his daily intelligence briefings. Trump announced the decision on social media, accusing Biden of setting the precedent in 2021 when he blocked Trump from receiving classified intelligence updates.
Trump’s 'Vengeance' in Action
Trump’s decision is being viewed as part of his broader effort to settle scores, a promise he made during his election campaign. This follows his earlier revocation of security clearances for over 50 former intelligence officials.
“There is no need for Joe Biden to continue receiving access to classified information,” Trump wrote in his post. “Therefore, we are immediately revoking his security clearances and stopping his daily intelligence briefings.”
When Biden Took the Same Step Against Trump
Trump’s move mirrors Biden’s own actions as president. In 2021, Biden stripped Trump of intelligence briefings, citing concerns over his alleged role in efforts to overturn the 2020 election and the January 6 attack on the Capitol. Biden justified the decision by pointing to Trump’s “erratic” behavior.
During a CBS News interview at the time, Biden was asked what risks Trump posed if he continued receiving briefings. He responded, “I just think that there is no need for him to have the intelligence briefings. What impact does he have at all, other than the fact he might slip and say something?”
In 2022, federal agents raided Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate and seized classified documents, leading to multiple felony charges. Trump pleaded not guilty and denied any wrongdoing.
Presidential Privilege
As sitting president, Trump has the authority to determine whether a former president retains access to classified information. With this move, he has exercised that power—just as Biden did before him.
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