John Brennan Tries To Turn His Security Clearance Debacle Into A ‘Free Speech’ Issue

On Wednesday, White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders made a big announcement: Former CIA Director John Brennan’s security clearance has been revoked. She cited his “erratic conduct and behavior.”

“Historically, former heads of intelligence and law enforcement agencies have been allowed to retain access to classified information after their government service so that they can consult with their successors regarding matters about which they may have special insights and as a professional courtesy,” Sarah Sanders said. “Neither of these justifications supports Mr. Brennan’s continued access to classified information.”

Former CIA Director John Brennan has had his security clearance revoked, @PressSec Sarah Sanders said today in a statement from the President. pic.twitter.com/YUKnK4RkL5

— The Daily Caller (@DailyCaller) August 15, 2018

Additionally, Sanders said the security clearances of Peter Strzok, Lisa Page, Sally Yates, Susan Rice, Andrew McCabe, and Bruce Ohr are also under review.

If you follow Brennan on Twitter, you know that he’s kinda sorta been obsessing lately. Every tweet is some sort of complaint about Trump.

Individuals of conscience who believe in rule of law should denounce this blatant effort to obstruct justice. As Mr. Trump’s desperation to protect himself grows, he could turn words into actions, prompting a Constitutional crisis. Congress must warn Trump of dire consequences. https://t.co/VUU9M2WcYZ

— John O. Brennan (@JohnBrennan) August 1, 2018

What responsible & right-thinking adult can point to @realDonaldTrump as a role model for our youth? Whenever he spews lies, insults, and polarizing hate speech against fellow Americans, think of its harmful impact on our young people and the way they talk, act, & treat others. https://t.co/S8sPpydvt9

— John O. Brennan (@JohnBrennan) August 4, 2018

You’re absolutely right. If you were “presidential,” you would focus on healing the rifts within our Nation, being truthful about the challenges we face, & showing the world that America is still that shining beacon of freedom, liberty, prosperity, & goodness that welcomes all. https://t.co/zRHRYAFEAo

— John O. Brennan (@JohnBrennan) August 13, 2018

It’s astounding how often you fail to live up to minimum standards of decency, civility, & probity. Seems like you will never understand what it means to be president, nor what it takes to be a good, decent, & honest person. So disheartening, so dangerous for our Nation. https://t.co/eI9HaCec1m

— John O. Brennan (@JohnBrennan) August 14, 2018

His TDS is blatantly obvious.

After Sanders made the announcement, Brennan responded on Twitter. His response doesn’t make much sense.

This action is part of a broader effort by Mr. Trump to suppress freedom of speech & punish critics. It should gravely worry all Americans, including intelligence professionals, about the cost of speaking out. My principles are worth far more than clearances. I will not relent. https://t.co/TNzOxhP9ux

— John O. Brennan (@JohnBrennan) August 15, 2018

“This action is part of a broader effort by Mr. Trump to suppress freedom of speech…” I’m sorry, but how is this a “free speech” issue? You don’t have the right to security clearance. I simply don’t see how “free speech” applies here, and neither does anyone else.

Nobody is "silencing" you John Brennan. You are free to continue your unhinged screeds on every available media outlet. What you aren't going to be able to do is to use that clearance to give validity to you maniacal rantings. https://t.co/WXiBOfIuwu

— Milo™ (@chasbottom) August 15, 2018

So, what you're saying is that security clearance is a right?

Great, so where is my security clearance? https://t.co/CqlpId91PV

— Ordy's Summer Lovin' (@OrdyPackard) August 15, 2018

No matter where you stand on this, it shouldn’t be hard to realize this is not a free speech issue. There are all sorts of things you can’t say and retain a security clearance at the same time.

He has a 1A right to speech, but not a 1A right to a clearance. It’s not hard. https://t.co/iXG4gM4LmF

— James Hasson (@JamesHasson20) August 15, 2018

It’s not a free speech issue, so try again Brennan.