WASHINGTON — A key figure in the Trump administration responsible for vetting thousands of staffers has yet to complete his own background check, according to sources. Sergio Gor, the director of presidential personnel, recently advised President Trump to withdraw an Elon Musk-backed NASA nomination, but hasn’t submitted the required paperwork for his security clearance.

Gor, 38, oversees the selection of roughly 4,000 executive branch staffers, ensuring their loyalty through careful review of social media, donations, and public remarks. Despite this, insiders say he hasn’t filed the SF-86 form— a comprehensive document necessary for security clearance. Currently, he holds only an interim clearance.

Typically, all White House personnel complete the SF-86 to initiate background assessments involving agencies like the FBI and Defense Department. The form asks detailed questions about birthplace, foreign contacts, family, funding, and potential vulnerabilities. Gor claims Maltese origins, but no official records confirm his birthplace, and he refused to provide details.

He previously opposed filling out the form during the transition, citing concerns over the “deep state” manipulating the process. Despite this, he has now reportedly completed the form, although the White House hasn’t specified when it will be officially submitted. White House officials maintain that Gor’s security clearance is active and compliant.

Gor’s limited record of submitting official forms has raised questions, especially given the rarity of such omissions among aides. Critics note that while the process involves rigorous checks, exceptions with presidential approval can sometimes be granted. Gor remains a trusted adviser, and supporters praise his role in staffing the administration with loyal, principled individuals.

He gained prominence after convincing Trump to reject Musk’s NASA nomination over political donations and personal grudges. Once a relatively unknown aide to Senator Rand Paul, Gor’s influence has expanded rapidly. He was also involved in a publishing venture with Donald Trump Jr. and has purchased a luxurious mansion near Mar-a-Lago. His advocacy for loyalty to Trump has made him a controversial yet powerful figure in political circles.

Notably, Gor often emphasized his Maltese heritage, describing himself as an immigrant who came to the US at age 12. Malta’s officials confirm he attended elementary and middle school there, and he is fluent in Maltese. Critics question whether his non-Maltese birthplace might have influenced the decision to avoid full background checks, but supporters highlight his unwavering loyalty and political success as proof of his dedication.