Rand Paul Applauds Revocation of Brennan's Security Clearance

Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., on Wednesday applauded President Donald Trump's revocation of ex-CIA chief John Brennan’s security clearance — accusing him of "monetizing and making partisan political use of his clearance."

In a statement, Paul noted he had "filibustered Brennan's nomination to head the CIA in 2013, and his behavior in government, and out of it, demonstrate why he should not be allowed near classified information."

"He participated in a shredding of constitutional rights, lied to Congress, and has been monetizing and making partisan political use of his clearance since his departure," Paul charged.

The libertarian-leaning lawmaker urged the security clearance revocation from six top Obama intelligence agency officials when the issue first arose last month.

"Is John Brennan monetizing his security clearance?" Paul tweeted at the time. "Is John Brennan making millions of dollars divulging secrets to the mainstream media with his attacks on [Trump]?"

• James Lankford: Obama's Officials Don't Need Security Clearances
• Sen. Coons: Talk on Revoking Security Clearances 'Petty, Pure Distraction'