In a sharp critique of the Trump administration’s handling of sensitive information, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has labeled the recent Signalgate controversy “dangerous” and “dumb.”
Clinton’s remarks, published in an op-ed for The New York Times, came after revelations that top Trump officials used the encrypted messaging app Signal to discuss military plans for a recent strike in Yemen. The conversation reportedly included a journalist, leading to concerns over national security and the potential exposure of classified information.
“It’s not the hypocrisy that bothers me; it’s the stupidity,” Clinton wrote. “Top Trump administration officials put our troops in jeopardy by sharing military plans on a commercial messaging app and unwittingly invited a journalist into the chat. That’s dangerous. And it’s just dumb.”
The criticism comes as Trump allies attempt to deflect from the incident by reviving accusations against Clinton over her use of a private email server while serving as Secretary of State. The Trump campaign repeatedly used the email controversy as a key attack line during the 2016 election, with chants of “Lock her up!” becoming a staple at rallies.
However, Clinton argued that the recent Signal chat breach represents a far greater threat to national security. She emphasized the need for responsible leadership and adherence to information security protocols.
A Broader Critique of Trump’s Foreign Policy
Beyond the Signal controversy, Clinton’s op-ed took aim at broader aspects of the Trump administration’s foreign policy. She condemned the mass firing of federal workers, the closure of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), and the administration’s reduced global diplomatic presence.
“The Trump approach is dumb power,” Clinton asserted. “Instead of a strong America using all our strengths to lead the world and confront our adversaries, Mr. Trump’s America will be increasingly blind and blundering, feeble and friendless.”
She further warned that the diminished presence of American diplomacy could create opportunities for adversaries like China to expand their influence.
“If this continues, a group chat foul will be the least of our concerns,” Clinton cautioned. “And all the fist and flag emojis in the world won’t save us.”
Political Ramifications
The Signalgate scandal has reignited debates over government transparency and the management of classified information. With the 2024 election cycle well underway, Trump’s opponents are likely to seize on the controversy as evidence of mismanagement.
Meanwhile, Trump allies continue to insist that Clinton’s email practices remain a more significant breach of security. However, legal experts suggest that the use of a commercial app for military communications presents unique and serious risks.
As the fallout from Signalgate unfolds, Clinton’s blunt assessment underscores the heightened scrutiny facing Trump’s handling of national security during his second term.