William J. Burns, former CIA director and deputy secretary of state, criticized the Trump administration for purging experienced intelligence officials in what he describes as a campaign of retribution rather than reform. Burns and other intelligence professionals warn that the administration's actions, including the firing of officials with expertise on Russian election interference, risk undermining U.S. national security by discouraging analysts from providing accurate intelligence. Veteran CIA officer Marc Polymeropoulos expressed concern that the current environment deters young Americans from pursuing intelligence careers. Analysts and experts, including Michael Hayden and GioeINT, argue that politicizing intelligence agencies threatens the government's ability to uncover secrets and assess information effectively. The recent dismissals highlight a shift in the traditionally apolitical intelligence community, raising fears of increased risk for major intelligence failures under the Trump administration.