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. The memo from Gabbard wants agencies to ask more questions about leaks during the security clearance process. This is not new, but 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. Some people who know about the memo say it's about making polygraph tests more common, especially when looking into possible spying. But they also worry that this could stop important information from getting to the public, even if it's not classified. An official from the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI) said the memo doesn't create new rules. It just makes sure existing ones are followed. The review is based on findings that not enough polygraph tests might be making it easier for former intel employees to spy for other countries. This isn't the first time something like this has happened. Back 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 were criticized for going after journalists' sources and using old laws to prosecute leakers. Gabbard's spokesperson said 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 pointed out the irony of deep state actors leaking information about a directive meant to stop leaks. Critics say these kinds of policies can make it harder for journalists to talk to government sources. They argue that using laws meant for spies to prosecute leakers is a problem. Some lawyers say this is just a way for the administration to intimidate people. 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. "