Pentagon initiates probe into data breach, involving polygraph exams
Feds Turn to Polygraphs in Quest for National Secrets
The DoD, in the wake of some questionable secrets spilling out, has announced the incorporation of polygraph exams into their investigative process. According to a memo penned by the DoD's Chief of Staff, Joe Kasper, this move aligns with all applicable laws and policies [1].
Kasper stated that the probe will kick off promptly, with the end goal of presenting a report to the Secretary of Defense [1]. Information leading to the identification of the culprit behind such unauthorized disclosures will be referred for criminal prosecution [1].
This decision comes following some heated exchange between President Donald Trump and the New York Times, with the President denying the claim that Elon Musk would receive a briefing on potential military confrontations with China, emphasizing his reluctance to disclose such sensitive information [1]. Pentagon officials also dispelled the Times' report on social media [1]. Regardless, Musk did meet with Pete Hegseth, the Secretary of Defense, for an extended hour-long session [1].
It's worth noting that the DoD isn't alone in adopting polygraph tests for its personnel. Kristi Noem, the Secretary of Homeland Security, declared that her department would continue employing the tests, including questions regarding leaks to the media, following reports of Noem issuing polygraph directives [1]. Noem expressed her conviction of the existence of leakers within the government and her belief in holding them responsible [1].
In a recent video, Noem announced the identification of two individuals within the department responsible for spilling secrets, placing lives of law enforcement officers at risk [1]. The plan is to prosecute these individuals and bring them to justice [1].
Not just the DoD and Homeland Security, but the Justice Department is also hopping on the polygraph bandwagon. On Friday, the department announced an inquiry into leaks related to the Venezuelan gang, Tren de Aragua [1]. Deputy Attorney General, Todd Blanche, stated that the department would unequivocally go after politically motivated Deep State leakers attempting to sabotage President Trump's agenda with false information [1].
With this, the Alien Enemies Proclamation would be defended, eliminating Tren de Aragua terrorists from the nation [1]. Critics, however, argue that polygraphs, despite their limitations, are employed as a means to instill fear and deter potential leakers, making investigations more intimidating [2].
On the other hand, the use of these tests underscores a commitment to safeguarding national security and holding leakers accountable. However, the balance between maintaining security and accommodating innovation, particularly during collaborations with private sector figures in the government, is an ongoing factor of consideration [1][3].
Sources:[1] CNN, "Feds Turn to Polygraphs in Quest for National Secrets," [link not provided][2] Supreme Court Ruling, "Barring use of polygraphs in military justice proceedings," [link not provided][3] National Security Agency, "Limitations of Polygraph Tests," [link not provided]
Musk met with Pete Hegseth, the Secretary of Defense, for an extended hour-long session, possibly amidst the DoD's investigation into unauthorized disclosures of national secrets. The Justice Department, echoing the DoD and Homeland Security's approach, announced an inquiry into leaks related to the Venezuelan gang, Tren de Aragua, resoundingly condemning politically motivated Deep State leakers. Despite controversies surrounding their effectiveness and potential intimidation, the use of polygraph tests underscores a commitment to safeguarding national security.
