The Trump administration has launched a rigorous campaign to identify and punish leakers within national security agencies. Under the directive of FBI Director Kash Patel, the FBI has begun administering polygraph tests to agents to uncover the sources of information leaks. These tests, commonly known as "lie detector" examinations, are not typically used in standard leak investigations, marking a significant shift in the agency's approach. ​

Attorney General Pam Bondi has further bolstered this crackdown by introducing new legal guidelines that permit the Department of Justice to subpoena journalists' personal communications. This move expands the scope of criminal prosecutions to include leaks of not only classified documents but also "privileged and other sensitive" information. Critics argue that such broad definitions may target disclosures that merely embarrass the administration or contradict its narratives. ​

Atmosphere of Fear and Intimidation

Within agencies like the FBI, the Pentagon, and the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI), officials report a palpable sense of dread. A former FBI field office head described morale as being "in the toilet," with staffers fearful of retaliation for perceived disloyalty. Even contractors holding security clearances are reportedly exercising extreme caution, concerned that any contact with journalists could be used against them in polygraph examinations. ​

The Pentagon, led by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, has also instituted polygraph testing to identify suspected leakers. Senior department officials have been subjected to lie detector tests, and abrupt removals of top staff members for leaking "sensitive communications" have further shaken the defense establishment. ​

Erosion of Press Freedom and Whistleblower Protections

The administration's aggressive measures have raised alarms among press freedom advocates and legal experts. The use of polygraphs as instruments to exact loyalty rather than ensure security is seen as a dangerous precedent. Steven Aftergood, a veteran intelligence policy analyst, emphasized that polygraphs are "stress detectors," not reliable indicators of honesty. Historically, even notorious spies have passed such tests, calling into question their effectiveness. ​The Washington Post

The Department of Homeland Security has also increased the use of polygraphs, focusing on employees suspected of revealing information on immigration operations. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) employees are among those who have been tested. ​

Undermining Intelligence Community Independence

Veteran intelligence officials warn that the administration's actions are undermining the independence and critical thinking capabilities of the intelligence community. At the ODNI, numerous staffers have opted for early retirement or buyouts, fearful of working under an increasingly authoritarian culture. Some former officials liken the environment to a Soviet-style culture, where employees are encouraged to report on each other for participating in diversity and inclusion exercises. ​The Washington Post

Even top military commanders are reportedly modifying their language, emphasizing patriotism and loyalty over candor to avoid political repercussions. The Pentagon, once a bastion of autonomous strategic thinking, is now grappling with a chilling effect that could hinder honest advice in an era of complex global threats. ​

Conclusion

As the Trump administration intensifies its efforts to suppress internal criticism and leaks, experts caution that these measures may ultimately weaken national security. By fostering a climate of fear and undermining the independence of intelligence agencies, the administration risks making the nation more vulnerable, not less. The balance between safeguarding classified information and upholding democratic principles such as press freedom and whistleblower protections remains a contentious and critical issue.​

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