On Wednesday, July 16th, 2026, The New York Times filed a motion to quash subpoenas served by the Department of Justice to its journalists. These subpoenas were issued following the Times' report on security concerns involving the new Air Force One, a gift from Qatar.

The subpoenas, some delivered to reporters at their homes, sought to compel testimony before a federal grand jury in Manhattan. This move marks a significant escalation in the Trump administration's crackdown on media leaks, which free press advocates have condemned as an intimidation effort against news organizations.

The Times' report, citing anonymous sources, indicated that the switch to the new plane was urged by the Secret Service and that the newer aircraft lacked some advanced security features of the older model, including antimissile capabilities.

David McCraw, The New York Times' senior vice-president and deputy general counsel, stated that the subpoenas were "brought in bad faith to punish the Times for its coverage" and that they "violate the constitutional rights of the Times and its journalists." He emphasized the newspaper's commitment to defending journalists' rights to report freely and provide the public with important stories.

The Department of Justice acknowledged the vital role of the press but stressed its responsibility to ensure that individuals entrusted with national secrets do not improperly share classified information. While the DOJ has occasionally seized journalists' phone records in past administrations, it is rare for the government to attempt to force reporters to reveal sources before a grand jury.

The legal filing was made under seal in the Southern District of New York, where the subpoenas were delivered last Friday.

Sources