Trump administration subpoenas New York Times journalists over Air Force One reporting

July 11, 2026

The Trump administration issued subpoenas to multiple New York Times journalists, requiring them to testify before a federal grand jury after the newspaper published reports about security vulnerabilities in President Trump's new Air Force One aircraft. The reporters had cited anonymous sources claiming the Qatari-donated plane lacked adequate security features, including antimissile capabilities, prompting the Secret Service to switch Trump to an older aircraft when returning from a NATO summit in Turkey. The Justice Department stated it is investigating illegal leaks of classified information rather than targeting journalists themselves, while the Times' attorney condemned the action as intimidation meant to suppress press freedom.

Who is affected

Several New York Times journalists who received subpoenas
David McCraw, the New York Times' top newsroom lawyer
Unnamed sources who provided information to the Times
President Donald Trump
The Secret Service
CBS News and other media outlets that published similar reports
A former US government official who spoke to CBS

What action is being taken

Federal agents are delivering subpoenas to reporters' homes
The Justice Department is investigating illegal leaks of classified information
Reporters are being required to appear before a federal grand jury in Manhattan on Wednesday
The grand jury is examining evidence regarding alleged violations of federal criminal law

Why it matters

This represents a significant escalation in government action against journalists and press freedom, as compelling reporters to testify about their sources threatens the ability of the press to report on matters of public interest. The case highlights the tension between national security concerns and First Amendment protections, particularly regarding the public's right to know about potential security issues with the president's aircraft and how taxpayer dollars are being spent. The incident raises questions about government transparency and whether the administration is using criminal investigations to intimidate journalists and prevent scrutiny of security failures involving presidential transportation.

What's next

The reporters are required to appear before a grand jury in Manhattan on Wednesday to provide testimony regarding the alleged violation of federal criminal law.

Read full article from source: BBC