How might loyalty to the U.S. be assessed during a clearance investigation?

Loyalty to the U.S. during a clearance investigation is typically assessed by examining an individual’s associations, affiliations, and attitudes towards foreign entities. This involves looking at the relationships that the individual maintains and how those relationships might affect their allegiance to the United States. For instance, individuals with close ties to foreign nationals or organizations that may pose a conflict of interest could raise concerns regarding their loyalty and willingness to protect classified or sensitive information.

Assessing loyalties in this manner helps to identify any potential susceptibility to coercion or influence that could compromise the individual's responsibilities as a holder of sensitive positions. Understanding an applicant’s views about foreign powers also complements this assessment, as extreme or conflicting affiliations may signify divided loyalties.

The other options, while relevant in the broader context of an investigation, do not directly target loyalty in the same way. For instance, reviewing personal finances may indicate issues like financial instability or vulnerability to bribery, and analyzing professional performance focuses more on job-related behavior rather than loyalty. Similarly, conducting interviews with family and friends may provide insights into the individual’s character or behavior but does not primarily address issues of loyalty to the U.S.