"A disclosure, even with redactions, will reveal whether a security clearance was granted with or without conditions or a waiver," DCSA argued. Ultimately, DCSA failed to prove that Musk risked "embarrassment or humiliation" not only if the public learned what specific conditions or waivers applied to Musk's clearances but also if there were any conditions or waivers at all, Cote wrote.
Starbucks employees at the Pentagon undergo extensive hiring processes, including criminal checks and drug testing, despite not needing security clearance, ensuring public trust.