Rescinding Biden-era Policy on Journalist Protections

Attorney General Pam Bondi rescinded a Biden-era policy protecting journalists in leak investigations, allowing authorities to subpoena reporters for testimony. The new policy requires DOJ approval and advance notice to journalists, returning to a more aggressive approach used during the Trump administration.

DOJ Obtaining Phone and Email Records of House Democrats and Congressional Staffers

During leak investigations, Trump's DOJ obtained phone and email records of two House Democrats and dozens of congressional staffers. DOJ failed to comply with its own procedures, did not conduct high-level review, risks chilling Congress's oversight ability, and faced scrutiny for accessing records of lawmakers and staff. No evidence of political motivation found. Justice Department faced backlash for seeking reporters' records as well. Biden and Garland banned the practice. Legal changes expected under incoming Trump administration.

Justice Department's Investigation into Leaks during Trump Administration

The Department of Justice's internal watchdog found no evidence of political motivation in subpoenas of communication records of Democratic members of Congress and reporters during the first Trump administration. However, the leak investigations targeted a larger number of congressional staffers than previously known. The report raises concerns about chilling Congress's ability to conduct oversight and the media's ability to report on sensitive government issues.