Photo credit: abcnews.go.com
WASHINGTON — Following President Donald Trump’s return to the presidency, unease looms among those who have found themselves on his opposing side. The implications extend beyond mere legal battles; individuals fear facing challenges such as passport renewals, IRS audits, and potential loss of federal pensions.
For many who have crossed Trump, his recent ascendancy has heightened anxiety levels, with worries about incurring substantial debts while trying to redeem themselves.
Less than a day into his new term, Trump made a significant move by revoking security clearances for numerous former intelligence officials whom he believes aligned with Joe Biden during the 2020 campaign or have subsequently opposed him. This revocation poses serious risks for those individuals involved in consultancy roles that necessitate access to sensitive information.
“Anyone who has ever disagreed with Trump is right to be concerned about retaliation,” remarked John Bolton, Trump’s former national security adviser and now a vocal critic. “The list is extensive, and many are genuinely frightened.”
Bolton was one of several former officials who shared their growing concerns about Trump’s propensity for revenge in discussions with The Associated Press. Notably, as Trump was about to take office, outgoing President Biden took the unusual step to issue preemptive pardons for individuals often targeted by Trump, including Dr. Anthony Fauci and retired General Mark Milley, as well as those involved in the congressional investigation into the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot.
Biden expressed that “baseless and politically motivated investigations wreak havoc on the lives, safety and financial security of targeted individuals and their families.”
Many of these officials have been labeled as part of a “deep state” by Kash Patel, Trump’s intended FBI director. Patel has vowed to launch a campaign against what he terms “government gangsters.”
The former officials who expressed their fears did so anonymously to avoid further attention. Their concerns include not only the possibility of being targeted in presidential statements or online harassment but also facing scrutiny or hardship over actions taken during their time in government. Most of them do not anticipate convictions, but rather fear the financial drain associated with legal defenses against investigations, official inquiries, or libel claims.
Trump’s desire for vengeance has been a recurrent theme in his rhetoric since leaving the presidency in 2021. During a rally in 2023, he declared, “For those who have been wronged and betrayed, I am your retribution.”
In his inaugural address, Trump proclaimed that his “proudest legacy will be that of a peacemaker and unifier.” He also signed an executive order aimed at stopping what he described as the weaponization of the federal government under Biden, incorrectly asserting that the prior administration prioritized political harm over genuine justice.
Shortly after taking the oath, Trump signed executive orders to settle scores by revoking security clearances for around 50 former intelligence personnel and rescinding Secret Service details for Bolton, whose safety has been jeopardized due to threats from foreign adversaries.
A White House spokesperson has yet to return requests for comments regarding these issues.
The federal government’s extensive authority significantly impacts citizens’ lives. It stands as one of the largest purchasers of goods and services globally and possesses the capacity to investigate, audit, and prosecute. This power extends to controlling essential functions such as citizenship verification and security clearances.
Although the bulk of federal operations has been insulated from political interference for over a century, a president with a vindictive agenda could disrupt the lives of individuals in various ways.
“The executive branch can take actions that are difficult to contest, particularly if one is indifferent about abiding by the law,” elaborated Barton Gellman, a senior adviser at the nonpartisan Brennan Center for Justice.
Last year, Gellman facilitated simulations aimed at gauging institutional responses to a potential authoritarian president. These exercises included high-profile participants such as former governors and congressional members who simulated actions by government entities when faced with unlawful orders from a president. Some scenarios involved government retaliation against political adversaries.
Findings from these simulations indicated a tendency for governmental institutions to yield to a president’s demands. Gellman posited that the American populace might serve as the most viable check against such abuses.
“Public sentiment could act as a significant limit on Trump’s actions. A substantial number of Americans surely oppose him exploiting his powers to retaliate against political opponents,” Gellman mentioned.
In a recent New York Times/Ipsos poll, 73% of Americans opposed Trump prosecuting his adversaries, with 49% expressing strong opposition.
In anticipation of potential reprisals, lawyers and advocacy groups have begun mobilizing financial resources and offers of assistance for impacted federal employees. Norm Eisen, a former U.S. ambassador and experienced attorney, highlighted that he is collaborating with the State Democracy Defenders Fund to advise those affected by Trump’s actions.
Mark Zaid, an attorney in Washington representing several clients whose security clearances were revoked, has initiated efforts to provide support to those at risk. This initiative includes coordinating legal resources, financial guidance, and mental health services.
“There’s little preparation we can undertake now,” Zaid noted, “other than being ready in case he moves against anyone.”
Source
abcnews.go.com