Leaks and Lies: U. S. Intel Agencies Crack Down on Whistleblowers

In a move that has sparked debate, Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard has ordered a review of U.S. intelligence agencies to see if random polygraph tests for employees and contractors could be a good idea. This comes as the Trump administration is trying hard to stop leaks of secret information to the press.

Memo Targets Leaks and Security Clearances

The memo from Gabbard wants agencies to ask more questions about leaks during the security clearance process. While this is not new, the administration is making it a bigger deal. The idea is to make sure people know they could face more checks if they talk to journalists.

Concerns Over Increased Polygraph Use

Some insiders say the memo is about making polygraph tests more common, especially when investigating possible spying. However, they worry this could stop important information from reaching the public, even if it's not classified.

ODNI Clarifies: No New Rules

An official from the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI) stated that the memo does not create new rules. Instead, it ensures existing ones are followed. The review is based on findings that too few polygraph tests might be making it easier for former intel employees to spy for other countries.

Historical Context: Previous Administrations Tried Similar Measures

This isn't the first time such measures have been proposed. In 2014, during the Obama administration, there was a similar push to ask more questions about leaks to the press. Both the Obama and Bush administrations faced criticism for targeting journalists' sources and using outdated laws to prosecute leakers.

Gabbard's Spokesperson Defends the Directive

Gabbard's spokesperson stated that there have been many unauthorized disclosures of classified information since the start of Trump's second term. These leaks could hurt U.S. alliances and put intelligence sources at risk. The spokesperson also noted the irony of "deep state actors" leaking information about a directive meant to stop leaks.

Critics Raise Concerns

Critics argue that such policies could make it harder for journalists to speak with government sources. They claim that using laws meant for spies to prosecute leakers is problematic. Some lawyers say this is just a way for the administration to intimidate people.

Pentagon Denies Reports of New Polygraph and NDA Policies

Meanwhile, the Pentagon is also looking into more random polygraph tests and making people sign nondisclosure agreements. The Pentagon spokesman called recent reports about this "untrue and irresponsible."