New York Times files motion to quash subpoenas served on journalists over Air Force One coverage
The New York Times has filed a motion to quash subpoenas served to its journalists regarding their reporting on security concerns with the new Air Force One. The newspaper argues the government is attempting to intimidate the press and force the disclosure of confidential sources.
Why it matters
This case highlights the ongoing tension between national security interests and the First Amendment protections afforded to journalists.
The New York Times on Wednesday filed a motion to quash subpoenas that the Justice Department served on journalists who reported on security concerns involving the new, Qatari-gifted Air Force One , teeing up a significant court fight pitting press freedom against the government’s ability to force reporters to identify sources.
“As we set out in our motion, these subpoenas are brought in bad faith to punish The Times for its coverage. They violate the constitutional rights of The Times and its journalists. We are going to court to defend our journalists’ rights to report freely on the administration and to provide the public with stories that matter,” David McCraw, the newspaper’s senior vice president and deputy general counsel, said in a statement.
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