Admiral Harvard Declines Trump's National Security Advisor Position

Robert Harvard, a retired U.S. Navy admiral, declined the offer to become National Security Advisor from Donald Trump. The National Security Advisor is one of the most important advisory positions directly in contact with the President and does not require confirmation from the U.S. Congress. This position was held by retired Army General Michael Flynn in recent weeks since Trump's inauguration. Flynn resigned at the request of the President following reports of his phone call with the Russian ambassador in Washington and discussions regarding sanctions imposed by Barack Obama's administration due to allegations of cyber interference in the U.S. election campaign. Trump has strongly criticized the leaks and disclosures regarding Flynn. On February 17, reports indicated that Admiral Harvard was offered the National Security Advisor position. He has now told the Associated Press that he declined the offer 'for personal reasons': 'This is a completely personal matter... I am now in a position where, after 40 years of service in the military, I want to enjoy my personal life.' He emphasized that the government showed interest in his personal and professional needs. Currently, Keith Kellogg is the acting National Security Advisor. The Associated Press mentions that General David Petraeus is another potential candidate for the position. Petraeus, the former head of the CIA, was accused in 2012 of mishandling classified information to his biographer, a woman with whom he had an extramarital affair. He was fined and released on probation. Petraeus was among those contacted by the President during his search for a Secretary of State. In this context, congressional representatives have called for investigations into Flynn's contacts with Russia. Donald Trump has denied allegations of connections between his campaign staff and Russia.