New York Times Journalists Subpoenaed Over Air Force One Security Reports
TL/DR –
The US Department of Justice has subpoenaed four New York Times journalists to testify before a federal grand jury, following their reporting on security concerns regarding the new Air Force One. The subpoenas were issued after discussion between justice officials and FBI Director Kash Patel, and seek to force the reporters, who include Julian E. Barnes and Eric Lipton, to reveal their sources. The move is seen as an escalation in President Trump’s campaign against the media, which some say erodes the freedom of the press; however, the department has countered that its aim is not to target reporters but those leaking classified information.
DOJ Subpoenas Journalists Over Air Force One Security Concerns Reports
WASHINGTON (AP) — The Department of Justice has issued subpoenas to New York Times journalists following reports on security threats associated with the Qatari-gifted Air Force One. This signifies an increased assault on the media from President Donald Trump, a move widely criticized for undermining American democracy.
The new aircraft, retrofitted and upgraded by the administration for $400 million, began service last week. However, Trump chose an older model for his departure from a NATO summit in Turkey and later mentioned Iranian threats against him.
WATCH: Trump’s Response to Iran’s Security Concerns for New Air Force One
The subpoenas aim to compel the reporters to testify before a Manhattan federal grand jury next week. FBI Director Kash Patel and other Justice Department officials had discussed the issue at the White House prior to the subpoenas being issued.
The Times reporters subpoenaed include Julian E. Barnes, Eric Lipton, Tyler Pager, and Eric Schmitt.
Lawyer David McCraw, representing the Times, criticized the move, characterizing it as an assault on press freedom. Bruce D. Brown, president of the Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press, warned this action could set a dangerous precedent.
The DOJ clarified that the subpoenas target those leaking classified information, not the reporters. The department emphasized its role in ensuring the responsible handling of national security secrets, even in the face of potential tension with the press.
Anti-Press Actions: A Recurring Pattern
These subpoenas constitute another attempt by Trump to intimidate independent media outlets, a pattern of behavior aimed at curbing negative coverage. Earlier this year, the DOJ had issued similar subpoenas to reporters from The Washington Post and The Wall Street Journal, but eventually retracted them.
WATCH: Trump’s Maiden Voyage on Qatari-Gifted Air Force One
Adam Steinbaugh, senior attorney for the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression, cautioned that these actions could silence journalists and whistleblowers.
Air Force One Security Concerns Amid Middle East Tensions
Amid escalating tensions with Iran, Trump switched to the new Air Force One for his flight back to the U.S. However, the Times reported that the new jet lacked certain advanced security features, sparking speculation about its readiness to handle such threats.
READ MORE: Security of Qatar’s Gifted Air Force One Questioned
The White House has yet to respond to inquiries about the subpoenas issued to the Times journalists.
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