The National Archives and Forgotten Classified Documents: An Analysis

Recent discussions have brought attention to the fact that certain documents found in Former Vice President Joe Biden’s possession were not recognized by the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). This article aims to explore the reasons behind this oversight and provide context regarding the handling and classification of documents within the White House.

Understanding the Context

The confusion arises from a common misunderstanding regarding the role of the National Archives and the process of document classification. It is a widely held belief that if documents were not logged as classified, they could not be considered classified documents. However, this viewpoint is incorrect. The classification of documents is based on the content and the potential harm it could cause to national interest, not merely on the documentation process.

Content and Classification

Documents are classified based on the sensitivity of the information they contain. The assumption that all classified documents are meticulously logged and tracked is also inaccurate. As a Defense Department (DOD) employee, I have firsthand experience with various levels of classification, from unclassified to Top Secret/SCIED/NOFORN. Most documents, regardless of their classification level, are not subject to extensive logging because the process would be unnecessarily cumbersome and impractical.

Responsibility and Oversight

Individuals with access to classified information are responsible for ensuring its proper handling and maintaining its security. This includes reporting any instances of mishandling or security breaches to their supervisors. The National Archives, while an important repository, only handles documents that have been formally transferred to them. Therefore, it is the responsibility of the White House staff members to ensure that all necessary documents are properly logged and transferred to the National Archives.

The Role of the National Archives

NARA maintains records of documents that need to be preserved for historical, legal, or administrative purposes. These documents are typically transferred to NARA at the end of their useful life within the governmental system. Not all documents in the White House are required to be transferred to NARA, and the decision to transfer documents is often based on their classification and the need for long-term preservation.

Why Documents Were Overlooked

The documents in question may have been overlooked due to several reasons. For instance, Biden or one of his staff may have inadvertently failed to return the documents after use. Alternatively, the documents could have been copies that were not intended for long-term archival storage. Regardless of the reason, the oversight highlights the need for improved document management practices within the White House.

Consequences and Precedents

Violations of document handling procedures can have serious legal and professional consequences. If the documents in question are indeed classified and were not properly logged and transferred, NARA would be required to report this to the appropriate authorities. It is essential to maintain strict compliance with document handling protocols to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive information.

The handling of classified documents by individuals in positions of power, such as Vice Presidents, sets a significant precedent. While Mistakes can and do happen, it is crucial to ensure that they are swiftly addressed and corrective actions are taken to prevent recurrence. History provides numerous examples of similar incidents involving other political figures, such as Hillary Clinton, whose handling of classified information came under scrutiny during her tenure as Secretary of State.

In conclusion, the recent discussion surrounding the documents found in Joe Biden’s possession underscores the importance of clear communication, meticulous record-keeping, and robust document management practices. While the National Archives’ oversight in this case may be understandable given the complexity of document handling, it is essential that all parties involved in the government’s information systems adhere to the highest standards of security and accountability.