The Justice Department withdraws subpoenas for New York Times journalists after Judge Arun Subramanian criticizes the administration's aggressive approach to press rights.
The Justice Department agreed to withdraw subpoenas for New York Times journalists following a hearing where U.S. District Court Judge Arun Subramanian challenged the government's methods. The subpoenas were issued after the newspaper reported security concerns regarding the new Air Force One jet gifted by Qatar. The administration argued the move was necessary for a national security investigation, but Subramanian noted that subpoenas should be a last resort rather than a first move. The judge criticized the government for issuing the demands just two days after the stories were published and for failing to follow established legal precedents. He also pointed out "slipshod" legal work, including a mistake where the government sought phone records for the mother of one reporter and the spouses of two others. While the administration maintained that the investigation into classified leaks remains ongoing, the withdrawal marks a victory for the First Amendment. David McGraw, the lead newsroom lawyer for the New York Times, called the ruling a great day for the rule of law.