Threre is a fundamental misconception about how this works. The security clearance isn't useful or important for those retired officials no longer serving the government, but for the current CIA/FBI agencies to be able to tap into the wealth of knowledge and experience these former officials have. It provides critically important continuity in counter intelligence and strategic issues that bridge over the 4-year terms of various governments and presidencies. Brennan was CIA head when we took down Bin Laden, Stzork one of our most knowledgable and experienced anti-espionage experts. Ridding these officials from the fabric of government and how it has operated for decades is a huge shot in the foot for this country. Putin for sure is overjoyed. All over the fragile ego of a panicked president on the run from the law.
Just goes to show what a gigantic dumbass Trump is that he thinks this will somehow keep the likes of Brennan, Comey, Hayden from criticizing him. All the while weakening US foreign intelligence capabilites in the process. Furcking idiot, I'm sorry, it has to be said.
I realize this is the reason given by those opposed to what Trump is doing, just wondering how true it is, and how often these former employees are tapped for their knowledge of the past.
And it certainly won't keep them from criticizing the President, as the media will go out of their way to broadcast their comments.