Attorney General Rescinds Journalist Protections, Paving Way for Subpoenas
Attorney General Pam Bondi ends Biden-era protections for journalists, allowing the DOJ to seek subpoenas while addressing media leaks.
Summary
Attorney General Pam Bondi has rescinded a Biden-era policy that protected journalists from subpoenas in leak investigations. Bondi's memo cites a rise in illegal leaks of sensitive information undermining national security. The new policy permits the Department of Justice to subpoena journalists and compel their testimony, albeit with protections regarding advance notice and the scope of intrusions on news-gathering activities. Critics argue that strong protections for journalists are essential for safeguarding the free flow of information in a democratic society. The move marks a return to more aggressive leak investigation policies seen during previous administrations.