Was Michael Flynn’s Mishandling of Classified Information Worse Than Hillary Clinton's Email Scandal?

The question of whether Michael Flynn's mishandling of classified information is worse than Hillary Clinton's email scandal has been contentious. This article delves into the specific incidents and context surrounding both individuals, providing a clear comparison for readers.

Understanding the Levels of Classification

In the United States, the classification of information is divided into several levels, starting from the most basic: Restricted, Confidential, Secret, Top Secret, and the highest level, Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI). Top Secret information is further subdivided into Top Secret-Sensitive Compartmented Information (TS-SCI) for particularly sensitive operations, requiring both a Top Secret clearance and a specific code-word clearance.

Operation Olympic Games: A TS-SCI Operation

For instance, a covert operation such as 'Operation Olympic Games' - the US cyber-sabotage of Iranian computers supporting nuclear efforts - required TS-SCI clearance. This level of clearance is reserved for the most sensitive and critical information, necessitating not only a Top Secret clearance but also a specific code-word clearance.

Hillary Clinton’s Email Server Incident

Regarding Hillary Clinton's email scandal, it is often discussed in the context of her use of a private email server while serving as Secretary of State. While this demonstrated a disregard for basic internet security procedures, it did not involve classified information. Clinton claimed she was unaware of the classification status of the emails, as they were not formally labeled with the appropriate security clearance levels.

Michael Flynn’s Infamous Actions

Michael Flynn's actions, on the other hand, are more egregious. He shared Top Secret-Sensitive Compartmented Information (TS-SCI) with foreign nationals on two separate occasions. During a meeting with Pakistani officials and representatives from the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), he shared a list of ongoing TS-SCI operations in Pakistan and Afghanistan. In another instance, during a meeting with other foreign nationals, he disclosed the names and identities of US intelligence community assets working in Afghanistan.

Broader Context and Historical Precedents

These actions are not an isolated incident for Flynn. He has a history of mishandling classified information, having been fired from his role in Afghanistan for similar reasons. Despite being one of the most respected intelligence officers of his generation, Flynn’s actions have brought him to the forefront of political controversy.

Conclusion and Legal Implications

While both cases involve handling of information potentially with security concerns, the severity of Flynn’s actions is more critical. Unlike Clinton's email scandal, Flynn's disclosure of TS-SCI information without proper authorization and to individuals outside his security clearance presents a more significant risk to national security. Additionally, Flynn's actions transcend mere negligence and include elements of deception, such as lying to the Vice President about his involvement.

The legal implications for Flynn are severe. Depending on the severity of the information discussed, a dismissal with investigation is required. In the most extreme cases, Flynn could face charges of treason, a very serious offense given his background in the intelligence community. Given his past, Flynn should have known the importance of always following the chain of command and the strictest security protocols.

Ultimately, the comparison between the two cases highlights the critical importance of proper handling of classified information and the potential catastrophic consequences of its mishandling.