
A long-serving FBI employee recently had his security clearance revoked after an internal review questioned his political beliefs and activities, raising concerns about potential political bias within the bureau. This incident has drawn significant attention, particularly from conservative circles, who view it as indicative of a troubling trend.
Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) highlighted this issue on social media, underscoring how easily an individual’s top-secret security clearance can be jeopardized based on perceived political affiliations. Memos obtained by Just the News reveal that the FBI’s Security Division inquired about the employee’s support for Donald Trump, his views on COVID-19 vaccinations, and his attendance at a Second Amendment rally.
The review, conducted in Spring 2022, involved questioning at least three witnesses about the employee’s political leanings. Witnesses were asked if the employee had ever expressed support for President Trump or objections to COVID-19 vaccinations. They were also asked about his attendance at the January 2021 Richmond Lobby Day rally for Second Amendment supporters. Although colleagues referred to the employee as a “gun nut,” they emphasized that he had not promoted violence.
Tristan Leavitt, the lawyer representing the unnamed employee, asserts that his client’s security clearance review was triggered after he self-reported taking a personal day to attend the January 6, 2021, rally in Washington, D.C. Leavitt stresses that his client did not engage in any criminal activities or enter the Capitol building during the event.
In a letter to Justice Department Inspector General Michael Horowitz, Leavitt criticized the FBI’s approach, stating: “Instead of limiting its investigation to legitimate issues, SecD (Security Division) acted as if support for President Trump, objecting to COVID-19 vaccinations, or lawfully attending a protest was the equivalent of being a member of Al Qaeda or the Chinese Communist Party.” Leavitt is calling for an investigation into whether the review process was influenced by political bias against conservatives within the FBI.
Leavitt further remarked, “The FBI’s intentions are made clear by the questions it chose to put in black and white on a government document.” This incident raises broader concerns about the potential for political litmus tests within government agencies and the implications for civil liberties and impartiality in security clearances.
As this case unfolds, it highlights the need for transparency and fairness in security clearance processes, ensuring they are free from political influence and that individuals’ rights to personal beliefs and lawful activities are respected.