With New York Times subpoenas, Trump is brazenly escalating his attacks on the press | Margaret Sullivan


Federal agents served subpoenas to five New York Times journalists who reported on security concerns about the new Air Force One.
Reported by 2 outlets — The Guardian US, Seattle Times. See all sources ↓
The US government sent subpoenas to five New York Times journalists. This is a serious matter for journalists, but not for non-journalists. The subpoenas are about reporting on security issues.
Why it matters
This is a concern for press freedom because it affects how journalists can gather information and protect their sources.
- What is a subpoena?
- A subpoena is a court order that says someone must give information or documents.
- Why did the government serve subpoenas to journalists?
- The government served subpoenas because the journalists reported on security concerns about the new Air Force One.
- Is this a big deal?
- Yes, it is a big deal because it affects how journalists can do their job and protect their sources.
How outlets are framing the same story
These are the main editorial angles found across reporting. Use them to quickly compare what different outlets emphasize, omit, or question.
The Guardian and Seattle Times frame the story as a threat to press freedom, while The New York Times focuses on the specific issue of the subpoenas.
- Coverage cardFraming signal1AngleScouting report
Threat to press freedom
Sources2TypeAngleThe GuardianFrames the story as a threat to press freedomSeattle TimesAlso frames the story as a threat to press freedom
- Coverage cardFraming signal2AngleScouting report
Specific issue
Sources1TypeAngleThe New York TimesFocuses on the specific issue of the subpoenas