Reimagining Security Clearances
Smashing the federal "Black Hole" filing systems used to conceal evidence
Americans recently discovered that the Obama-Biden FBI operated “black hole” filing systems that intentionally concealed damning documents from oversight.
When it comes to national security, there is no question that government documents are overly classified (the funniest example: redacting the price that FBI hack Andy McCabe paid for a single desk — he bought at least one for $70,000 — while “serving” at the FBI).
Given advances in technology, I think it’s imperative we reimagine national security classifications, clearances and information segregation to benefit all Americans.
Transparency where feasible, secrecy only when needed - and fully traceable.
Please consider:
China's integrated approach to information warfare, Russia's sophisticated cyber operations, and emerging threats from AI-powered attacks demand immediate modernization of our clearance infrastructure.
The technology exists today—from AI risk assessment to blockchain identity management—to address these issues in an open and collaborative way.
Congress must act decisively to fund this transformation, and security agencies must abandon legacy thinking that prioritizes bureaucratic tradition over national security effectiveness.
The cost of inaction isn't measured in dollars but in strategic advantages lost to adversaries who aren't hobbled by Cold War-era compartmentalization. America's security depends on information flowing to the right people at the right time—not filtered through silos designed for a threat environment that no longer exists.
Postscript I: I wonder what the role of Inspectors General are, given their recent and rampant failures?
Postscript II: national security secrets should have mandatory declassification dates assigned. The JFK files being a case in point.
Related:
The Nellie Ohr Cover-Up and the FBI's "Black Hole" Filing System
Newly revealed documents from Sen. Chuck Grassley — summarized nicely in The Federalist by Hans Mahncke — expose Nellie Ohr's deeper involvement in the Trump-Russia collusion hoax, showing her as a central figure linking Clinton campaign operatives, the DOJ, and the FBI. Despite lying under oath and contributing to the Steele Dossier, her actions were …
Many moons ago I ws screened for a TS clearance by the FBI. On the application you had to list all your clubs and affiliations. At the time I was a participating member of the MORC (Midget Ocean Racing Club) which is a legit organization dating back to 1958. I got called back by the FBI who asked if I was being some sort of a smart-*ss. I responded that "you are the FBI and this is the best you can do?". I received my clearance...