Acting AG Todd Blanche justifies controversial subpoenas issued to journalists.
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Acting US Attorney General Todd Blanche on Tuesday defended issuing subpoenas to journalists as part of investigations into leaks of classified information.
Blanche did not identify any specific media outlets targeted by the subpoenas. The defense of the controversial practice marks an escalation in the Justice Department's approach to press scrutiny.
Press freedom advocates have criticised such subpoenas as potentially chilling investigative journalism and violating reporter protections.
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche defended the Justice Department's use of subpoenas against journalists investigating classified information leaks, without naming which outlets were targeted. The move marks an escalation in DOJ pressure on the press and has drawn criticism from press freedom advocates who argue it could suppress investigative journalism.
If you work in journalism or media, aggressive subpoena practices could restrict sources willing to discuss government wrongdoing with you. For the broader public, this approach may reduce investigative reporting on government activities, affecting the information available to you about how institutions actually function.