MEMORANDUM FOR THE HEADS OF EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENTS AND AGENCIES
Miles Taylor, once a steward of Federal service, has now become a cautionary tale of misplaced priorities. Rather than uphold his constitutional oath, Taylor opted to chase personal ambitions, seeking fame and financial gain at the expense of his duties. During his tenure as an administrative staff assistant at the Department of Homeland Security, he fanned the flames of discord by alleging the existence of a so-called “resistance” within the Federal Government—a group purportedly intent on undermining a sitting President. In a dramatic twist befitting a political thriller, he leaked classified conversations to promote his book under the pseudonym “Anonymous,” filled with dubious claims and conjured narratives.
In doing so, Taylor not only forsook his sacred commitment to public service but also compromised sensitive information obtained through unauthorized means. Such actions betray the trust of colleagues and the public alike. When a government employee recklessly divulges sensitive information for personal gain, jeopardizing national security and governmental integrity, it raises serious questions. Such conduct might even tread the line of treason and potential violations of the Espionage Act, thus rendering the individual unfit for access to national secrets.
Moreover, Taylor didn’t act alone; he relied on a network of colleagues to facilitate his unethical release of government data, which further muddied the waters of accountability. Therefore, extending security clearance access to those associated with Taylor would run counter to the best interests of the nation.
In light of this disturbing revelation, I hereby instruct the Attorney General, the Director of National Intelligence, and all relevant executive leaders to take immediate action consistent with prevailing laws to suspend any active security clearances held by Miles Taylor, as well as those linked to him, including individuals affiliated with the University of Pennsylvania. This suspension will remain in effect pending a thorough review to determine whether these clearances align with national interests.
Furthermore, I direct the Secretary of Homeland Security, in collaboration with pertinent agency heads, to conduct a comprehensive review of Taylor’s actions during his government service. This investigation should pinpoint any behavior that contravenes suitability standards for Federal employees and identify instances of unauthorized dissemination of classified information. Upon concluding this review, the Secretary shall compile a report for the President, through the Counsel to the President, offering recommendations for appropriate remedial actions to safeguard America’s interests.
This memorandum is not intended to create any enforceable right or benefit, either substantive or procedural, by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.