Former DHS Official Calls for Investigation After Trump’s Security Clearance Order

WASHINGTON (AP) — A former Homeland Security official who served during President Donald Trump’s first term is urging independent government watchdogs to investigate Trump after he ordered an inquiry into the official’s conduct.

Miles Taylor, who was the chief of staff at the Department of Homeland Security, expressed concerns in an interview with The Associated Press regarding the implications of Trump’s April 9 memorandum titled, “Addressing Risks Associated with an Egregious Leaker and Disseminator of Falsehoods.” This directive accused Taylor of fabricating stories to promote his book and instructed the secretary of Homeland Security to investigate him, potentially revoking his security clearances.

On the same day, Trump also initiated an investigation into Chris Krebs, a former cybersecurity chief. Taylor noted that these actions exemplify how Trump has wielded presidential powers against critics, describing them as a “scary precedent.”

“I didn’t commit any crime,” Taylor stated. “I can’t think of any case where someone knows they’re being investigated but has absolutely no idea what crime they allegedly committed.” He emphasized the danger of allowing the president to target private citizens for investigation.

Since returning to office in January, Trump has removed security clearances from several opponents. Taylor’s case marks an escalation in Trump’s ongoing campaign of retribution against those who challenge him.

Taylor, who left the administration in 2019, made headlines in 2018 by writing an anonymous op-ed for The New York Times, where he identified himself as part of a secret “resistance” within the White House. This op-ed triggered a leak investigation.

After sending a letter to the inspectors general at the Departments of Justice and Homeland Security, Taylor’s attorney Abbe Lowell stated that Trump’s actions are unprecedented and violate Taylor’s First Amendment rights. The letter highlighted that the memorandum targets Taylor merely for his criticism of the president.

Lowell indicated that they might consider a lawsuit depending on how the inspectors general respond to their complaint. In the letter, he urged investigations into what he termed as abuses of power, noting that Trump’s order could infringe on both Taylor’s First and Fifth Amendment rights.

Taylor’s personal life has been impacted significantly since the memorandum’s issuance. He has reported threats and harassment against his family and stated that former colleagues lost their jobs due to their connection to him.

“We’ve experienced an implosion in our lives,” Taylor said, adding that he has established a fund to cover legal fees and that his wife has returned to work to help support their family. He expressed concerns for their safety, particularly after the publication of their home’s location online.

As they navigate these challenges, Taylor and his family decided to fight back instead of remaining silent, aiming to hold the administration accountable for what they believe are unconstitutional and illegal actions.