President Donald Trump released a memorandum rescinding the security clearances of several former high-ranking government officials, a move that has shocked both national security and political circles.
In addition to its dramatic magnitude, the judgment is noteworthy for deviating from accepted national security practices.
Trump clarified that this step was required to “protect the country” in an official statement that was posted on the White House website.
Both supporters and detractors have been quick to voice their opinions, and the ruling has raised concerns about its wider effects on U.S. political institutions as well as its legal underpinnings.