“Joe, You’re Fired!”: Trump’s Security Clearance Purge and the Political Power Play

The Apprentice, Oval Office Edition

Donald Trump is back, and he’s not wasting any time making waves. In a move that feels ripped straight from an episode of The Apprentice, he took to his Truth Social platform to deliver a stinging message to Joe Biden: “Joe, you’re fired.” But this isn’t about boardrooms and bad business pitches—this is about national security and political retribution. Trump’s decision to revoke Biden’s access to intelligence briefings, along with the security clearances of 50 individuals—including Dr. Anthony Fauci—has sent shockwaves through Washington.

Revenge or Routine? The Security Clearance Precedent

Let’s be clear: this isn’t entirely without precedent. When Biden took office in 2021, he also revoked Trump’s access to intelligence briefings, citing concerns over Trump’s “erratic behavior.” The decision was widely seen as a safeguard against potential security risks. Trump’s move, on the other hand, carries a different tone—one laced with personal vendetta and political messaging.

Historically, former presidents retain some level of access to classified briefings to offer guidance in times of crisis. However, it’s not a requirement. The question now is whether Trump’s move is rooted in national security concerns or simply the latest chapter in the never-ending Trump-Biden rivalry.

The 50 Names: A Political Housecleaning?

Alongside Biden, Trump revoked security clearances from around 50 individuals, whom he accused of interfering in favor of Biden during the 2020 election. While no official list has been released, speculation runs wild. Are these former intelligence officials who criticized Trump? High-ranking Democrats? Political operatives? Or simply individuals who, in Trump’s view, have committed the cardinal sin of opposing him?

This move isn’t just about clearance; it’s about rewriting the narrative. Trump has long insisted that the 2020 election was “stolen.” By stripping these individuals of access, he’s symbolically enacting justice—at least in the eyes of his supporters.

Dr. Fauci’s Clearance: Pandemic Payback?

Then there’s Dr. Anthony Fauci, the longtime infectious disease expert who became the face of America’s Covid-19 response. Trump’s relationship with Fauci was rocky, to say the least. Fauci’s recommendations often clashed with Trump’s messaging during the pandemic, leading to open frustration.

Now, Fauci finds himself on Trump’s clearance hit list. While the practical impact of revoking Fauci’s access is limited—he retired from government service in 2022—the symbolism is unmistakable. This is a direct rebuke of his role in pandemic policies that Trump believes hurt his presidency.

The Real Game: Power and Optics

In the grand scheme, stripping Biden and others of their security clearances may have minimal operational impact. Biden, as a former president, doesn’t need intelligence briefings. Fauci isn’t actively working in government. And the 50 unnamed individuals? Their influence remains to be seen.

But this is less about security and more about political theater. Trump is sending a message: the era of political “payback” is here. His supporters see a strong leader reclaiming power. His critics see an authoritarian flexing his muscle.

The battle lines are drawn, and if this is any indication of what’s to come, buckle up. The next four years are going to be a wild ride.