New York Times moves to quash DOJ subpoenas over Air Force One investigation

Summary

The New York Times on Wednesday filed a motion to quash subpoenas issued by the US Justice Department to its journalists in connection with reporting on security concerns surrounding the newly commissioned Air Force One aircraft gifted by Qatar, according to an Associated Press report. The move is expected to spark a major legal confrontation over reporters' rights to protect confidential sources. Filed under seal in the US District Court for the Southern District of New York , the motion challenges subpoenas requiring journalists to appear before a federal grand jury. The Times said the subpoenas were delivered to reporters at their homes last Friday. David McCraw, Senior Vice President and Deputy General Counsel at the Times , accused the Justice Department of attempting to punish the paper for its reporting. He argued the subpoenas violate constitutional protections for both the newspaper and its journalist, vowing to fight in court to defend press freedom and the right to report on matters of public interest. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche echoed that position during his Senate confirmation hearing on Wednesday, saying that reporters are being treated as material witnesses rather than targets of the investigation, according to AP . The legal dispute also follows a policy change introduced by former Attorney General Pam Bondi in April 2025, which reversed protections adopted during the Biden administration. The revised policy restored prosecutors' authority to use subpoenas, search warrants and court orders during leak investigations, while requiring advance notice to journalists and limiting the scope of searches involving newsgathering materials. Stay updated with the latest Trending , India , World and US news.