Justice Department subpoenas have landed at several New York Times reporters’ homes. The move follows reporting on security concerns involving Air Force One. The journalists have been ordered to testify before a federal grand jury as investigators examine possible leaks of classified information.
New York Times journalists face DOJ subpoenas over reporting on Air Force One security concerns
According to the BBC, federal agents served subpoenas on several New York Times reporters after the newspaper published stories about the security of President Donald Trump’s new Air Force One aircraft. The Justice Department said the investigation centers on alleged illegal leaks, stressing that “Reporters are not the targets, those leaking classified information are.”
The subpoenas require the journalists to appear before a federal grand jury in Manhattan. Court documents reportedly state their testimony is needed in connection with “an alleged violation of federal criminal law.” Grand juries review evidence presented by prosecutors and decide whether there is enough to bring criminal charges.
The reporting at the center of the dispute focused on Trump’s use of a Boeing 747-8 donated by Qatar. The New York Times, citing unnamed sources, reported that the Secret Service advised Trump to return from the NATO summit in Turkey aboard an older Air Force One because the newer aircraft lacked some advanced defensive systems, including antimissile capabilities. CBS News also published similar reporting, citing a former U.S. official who said there had not been enough time or funding to fully upgrade the plane.
The newspaper strongly criticized the subpoenas. David McCraw, the Times’ top newsroom lawyer, called them a “brazen act” aimed at intimidating journalists and preventing the public from learning “what is happening in their country.” The Justice Department, however, said it respects the role of the press while also having a responsibility to ensure officials entrusted with classified information do not disclose national secrets.
The dispute unfolded as tensions with Iran escalated and Trump dismissed concerns about the aircraft, saying, “I’m No. 1 on their list.”
Originally reported by Rishabh Shandilya on Mandatory.
