Judge rebuffs Trump admin demand for phone records from NYT reporters
A federal judge has forced the Department of Justice to withdraw subpoenas aimed at obtaining phone records from New York Times reporters. The judge criticized the administration's attempt to unmask confidential sources as a violation of legal standards.
Why it matters
This ruling serves as a significant check on executive power regarding press freedom and the protection of journalistic sources.
“Brazen effort to intimidate the press” Judge rebuffs Trump admin demand for phone records from NYT reporters “We can quash the subpoenas, or you could withdraw the subpoenas,” judge told US.
22 The New York Times building in New York City on January 22, 2026. Credit: Getty Images | Angela Weiss The New York Times building in New York City on January 22, 2026. Credit: Getty Images | Angela Weiss Text settings Story text Size Small Standard Large Width * Standard Wide Links Standard Orange * Subscribers only Learn more Minimize to nav After criticism from a federal judge, the Department of Justice yesterday withdrew demands for phone records and grand jury testimony from New York Times reporters who wrote about security concerns related to the Air Force One jet donated to Trump by Qatar.
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