Special counsel Robert Mueller’s probe into Russia’s election interference is holding up White House adviser Jared Kushner’s security clearance, CNN reported Thursday.
Sources told CNN that the process to complete the security clearance can’t be finished until Mueller’s team wraps up its probe into ties between Kushner and Russians and other foreign contacts.
It’s unknown when Mueller’s investigation will conclude, but there is no indication that it will end any time in the near future.
{mosads}
Kushner has emerged as a key player in Mueller’s probe. The special counsel is reportedly looking at the adviser’s dealings with foreign investors for his family’s real estate business during the presidential transition.
Kushner’s contacts with Russians and his relationship with former national security adviser Michael Flynn are also reportedly included in the probe.
Questions over Kushner’s security clearance reached a fever pitch earlier this month after it was revealed that he, along with several other top Trump aides, had been working with temporary security clearances more than a year into the administration.
Chief of staff John Kelly said earlier this month that the administration will change its policy on the temporary clearances, cutting off some of them.
Kushner is reportedly resisting giving up his high-level access as Kelly carries out the review.
Kelly said in a statement this week that he has “full confidence” in Kushner to carry out his vast portfolio of foreign policy responsibilities, even without a full clearance.
The White House has also said that the review of security clearances wouldn’t impact Kushner.