Donald Trump recently revealed the reasons behind his decision to withhold full declassification of JFK assassination files during a candid interview with Joe Rogan. The topic sparked renewed discussions about transparency in government. He promised Rogan to fully release the documents if reelected.
JFK Files: Decisions Driven by Security and Privacy
Donald Trump refrained from fully declassifying John F. Kennedy’s assassination files during his presidency. He disclosed this decision in an interview with Joe Rogan, citing guidance from trusted advisors such as Mike Pompeo. Trump explained the delicate balance between public interest and potential national security risks, as well as concerns for the privacy of individuals still living who could be impacted by the information.
“Addresses, people that are still living, there are people that are affected, um and there could be some national security reason that for you know that I don’t have to necessarily know about, but some very good talented people asked me not to do it,” Trump explained. He further indicated that while the files were partially opened, he was asked to withhold some for another time.
Donald Trump talks with Joe Rogan about the JFK Files and UFO sightings
"One of the things you said is: 'if they showed you what they showed me, you wouldn't want people to know about it either.'" pic.twitter.com/vlebEHbN4Q
— Overlap (@JoinOverlap) October 26, 2024
Promise to ‘Cleanse’ and Declassify
Trump’s discussion with Rogan also included a promise to fully declassify the remaining files if he retakes the Oval Office. In 2017, Trump declassified over 2,800 JFK-related documents, demonstrating a commitment to transparency, albeit with some restraints. Trump called the act of full disclosure a potential “cleansing,” emphasizing the importance of truth and transparency for the American public.
“I opened them up partially. I was met with — from good people, I mean, you know, look at me, good people, people that were well-meaning, Mike Pompeo was one of them, he’s a good person,” Trump told Rogan. Trump described how even well-meaning individuals played a role in his decision to withhold some files.
Donald Trump tells Joe Rogan he plans on releasing the JFK files if elected. This would be hugeeee. pic.twitter.com/E00X5xS1Of
— 𝙳𝚊𝚝𝚊 (@data1five) October 26, 2024
The Broader Push for Transparency
The public demand for truth regarding historical events remains strong, with Trump acknowledging these sentiments. His promise to reveal the documents is seen as an effort to both satisfy public interest and fulfill transparency promises made during his previous term. Thus far, the efforts by President Joe Biden have also drawn scrutiny, particularly for not achieving full transparency despite some additional releases in 2021 and 2022.
The National Archives made further releases on June 30, 2023. The continued debate underscores the complexities leaders face in handling sensitive historical data, balancing security concerns with the public’s right to know.
