I am a Palestinian American. I use twitter a lot have been extremely critical of Israel and have expressed support for Gaza. I have a conditional offer of employment with the gov and am undergoing my clearance process and just wrapped everything up with my Investigator. I have written a few op-eds in the past while as a grad student expressed support for my people, I also called the Hamas Oct 7 attacks vile.
With that said my question is
Would criticizing a U.S ally on social media hurt my chances?
Would putting my account on private help? ( I doubt it)
My investigator said He does not see any cause for concern ( I know he is not the decision maker)
If one wishes to get cleared and remain so…you never lose your first ammendment rights. Ever. However, judicious exercise thereof is highly recommended. Not telling you how to think nor express yourself. But restraint is a higher Angel in life. If you consistently post in a manner sympathetic to a foreign cause you can expect scrutiny. Remaining above board, ethical and rational mitigates concern.
I think the more challenging part will be when you get to the face to face interview with the agency’s security (again depends on which agency you will be working for). You may want to start thinking about possible conflicts between your ideology VS being an American and serving your country. What are the bottom lines for you to decide not to work for the gov, and if you receive the final offer, will you able to remain loyal to your employer and keep your oath, even that may contradict to your deep believe system.
Former CIA director John Brennan used to be a communist party member, and he later got his job at the agency (look it up). I think you just need to be honest with yourself as well as with the interviewer or polygraph administrators …
I know what you mean. I love my nation and would serve it proudly. I just fear that my opinions, which many have told me are sane and rational, would be used against me in the adjudication process and result in a denial of my clearance.
I think as long as you can show the government you are trust worthy to keep the national security, instead of sharing it to the public, nor working with the side that will sabotage our national security, I don’t think you would have problems.
Be prepared to some what if scenarios with the i person interview.
Hi Dima, I have nothing against Israelis or Jew’s at large. I hope our respective peoples can live in peace and harmony. We are both wounded spirits in a promised land. Blessings be upon you.