Tulsi Gabbard strips 37 of security clearances over Obama-ordered intel report that launched Russiagate
An ODNI memo dated Monday announced that the more than three dozen intel professionals — including a former top aide to Obama DNI James Clapper — had either politicized or weaponized intelligence, failed to safeguard classified info or not followed tradecraft standards.
'The President has directed that, effective immediately, the security clearances of the following 37 individuals are revoked,' the memo stated.
3 Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, speaks with reporters in the James Brady Press Briefing Room at the White House, Wednesday, July 23, 2025, in Washington.
AP
'Their access to classified systems, facilities, materials, and information is to be terminated forthwith. Any contracts or employment with the U.S. Government by these 37 individuals is hereby terminated. Any credentials held by these individuals must be surrendered to the appropriate security officers.'
The 37 include Vinh Nguyen, who assisted Clapper in producing the now-discredited 2017 Intelligence Community Assessment on Russia's preference for then-candidate Donald Trump in the 2016 contest with Hillary Clinton.
'Being entrusted with a security clearance is a privilege, not a right,' an ODNI spokesperson said in a statement. 'Those in the Intelligence Community who betray their oath to the Constitution and put their own interests ahead of the interests of the American people have broken the sacred trust they promised to uphold.'
3 Former Director of National Intelligence James Clapper listens during testimony on May 8, 2017, before the US Senate Judiciary Committee on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC.
AFP via Getty Images
3 Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin shake hands during a joint press conference after their summit on July 16, 2018.
Getty Images
'Our Intelligence Community must be committed to upholding the values and principles enshrined in the US Constitution,' the rep added, 'and maintain a laser-like focus on our mission of ensuring the safety, security and freedom of the American people.'
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