Arlington, VA – On Friday, U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi issued a memo to all Department of Justice staff alerting them she has rescinded the standing DOJ policy to not subpoena members of the news media to compel them to identify their sources when reporting on government leaks.
In response, News/Media Alliance President and CEO Danielle Coffey issued the following statement:
“The News/Media Alliance unwaveringly supports the journalistic and newsgathering process, including protection of journalists’ sources. Rescission of the DOJ’s guidelines is a step backwards. This change will limit the press’ ability to report on critical stories that matter to millions of Americans of all backgrounds.”
The DOJ Guidelines that were just rolled back shielded media of all types and ideologies, including conservative media who might now be vulnerable to targeting from future administrations. This shared interest is why the PRESS Act, also known as journalist “shield laws,” has had widespread conservative support for years, easily passing in the House last year without objection.
Coffey continued, “Press freedom is not a partisan issue – it is one that members of both parties have a vested interest in protecting. While we recognize the importance of protecting classified information, removing essential protections is the wrong solution to the Administration’s efforts to limit leaks.”
“The News/Media Alliance will engage with the Administration to restore the rescinded policy, and will continue to work with members of Congress to pass the PRESS Act, providing news media the legally-guaranteed protection from government they deserve,” said Coffey.
