Blumenthal, Shaheen Statement on Suspension of Flynn's Security Clearance

[WASHINGTON, DC] – U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) responded today to the Defense Intelligence Agency’s suspension of retired Lieutenant General Michael Flynn’s security clearance, following their request for a review of his conduct and access to classified information.

“General Flynn's abysmally bad judgment and possible‎ law breaking makes his access to classified information completely unacceptable. Reviewing his security clearance is unquestionably necessary. I hope the Defense Intelligence Agency will not only temporarily suspend General Flynn’s clearance, but undertake a comprehensive assessment and take appropriate permanent action,” Blumenthal said.

“The latest revelations regarding General Flynn’s assurances to the Russian ambassador add to a long list of egregious behavior,” said Shaheen. “Senator Blumenthal and I have raised concerns about his security clearance on multiple occasions and I’m relieved that a review is being conducted. General Flynn has time and again demonstrated incredibly poor judgement and it’s entirely appropriate that his security clearance be suspended.”

On Friday, Blumenthal and Shaheen, both members of the Senate Armed Services Committee, wrote Secretary of Defense James Mattis and Central Intelligence Agency Director Mike Pompeo requesting a review Flynn’s security clearance. Their request followed news that Flynn had discussed U.S. sanctions policy with Russian Ambassador Sergey Kislyak prior to President Trump’s inauguration.

The Senators made a similar request in December, referencing Flynn’s reported record of mishandling classified intelligence – as first reported in the New Yorker – and his conduct following his military service, including a paid trip to Russia to celebrate the 10^th anniversary of the Russian government’s propaganda arm, Russia Today.