A group of over 100 former CIA and intelligence officials have signed a letter opposing the construction of a casino in Northern Virginia's Tysons area, citing potential national security risks. The proposed casino site would be approximately five miles from CIA headquarters in Langley, Fairfax County.

The National Security Leaders for Fairfax group argues that the casino's proximity to government officials with security clearances could attract both organized crime and foreign intelligence services seeking to compromise sensitive information. They emphasize that the Washington D.C. area has the highest concentration of sensitive security clearances in the country.

The opposition comes as Senate Majority Leader Scott Surovell (D-Mount Vernon) prepares to introduce legislation that would allow Fairfax County voters to decide on the casino project. While local leaders and homeowners' associations largely oppose the project, unions have shown support.

Key concerns include:

• Proximity to defense contractors like Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and Raytheon
• Risk of gambling addiction among clearance holders
• Potential for blackmail and compromise of sensitive information
• Federal regulations that can revoke security clearances for problem gambling

Supporters argue the casino could provide new tax revenue streams for the area, particularly important given the declining property tax base and vacant office spaces post-pandemic. The MGM National Harbor casino has operated across the Potomac since 2016 without reported security incidents involving federal workers.

The letter has been sent to the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, Governor Glenn Youngkin, and all Virginia General Assembly members, urging immediate rejection of the casino proposal.

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