AG Pam Bondi Disavows Biden-Era Policies on Journalist Protections Amid Leak Investigations

AG Pam Bondi Disavows Biden-Era Policies on Journalist Protections Amid Leak Investigations

Attorney General Pam Bondi announced on Friday a pivotal shift within the Department of Justice. The DOJ will revise its policy that previously allowed journalists to shield their records and testimonies regarding suspects in criminal inquiries.

In a memo obtained by Axios, Bondi articulated that the intentional leaking of sensitive information from federal employees to the media compromises the DOJ’s efforts to ensure national safety.

She stated firmly, “This conduct is illegal and wrong, and it must stop.” This statement marks a significant departure from the policies established by her predecessor, Merrick Garland. Bondi emphasizes the necessity to rescind these policies, which previously restricted the DOJ from pursuing records and compelling testimonies from media members in efforts to identify and penalize the source of improper leaks.

Bondi also highlighted that using investigative techniques related to news-gathering should be regarded as an extraordinary measure, employed only when absolutely essential for the effective prosecution of a case.

Concerns Over Abuse of Protections

In her memo, Bondi expressed concern that existing protections were being exploited. She indicated that certain officials had been utilizing their connections with media allies to leak sensitive information for political advantage. This abuse, Bondi argues, has made it increasingly difficult for prosecutors to access crucial communications stored on phones and electronic devices.

Her statements come on the heels of recent developments within the intelligence community. Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard recently referred two intelligence officials accused of leaking classified data to the DOJ for potential criminal charges. Allegations suggest that these officials shared classified information with major publications like the Washington Post and the New York Times.

Furthermore, the DOJ has indicated that a third criminal referral related to these leaks is anticipated.

Historical Context and Policy Changes

Former Attorney General Merrick B. Garland, serving under President Joe Biden, made comprehensive changes to the DOJ’s approach regarding the acquisition of information from the media in 2022. Garland’s policy instituted strict limits on the DOJ’s ability to obtain journalistic records. Exceptions were permitted only under well-defined circumstances, primarily focused on safeguarding press freedoms.

Bruce D. Brown, president of the Reporters Committee for the Freedom of the Press, remarked on the significance of protecting the identities of confidential sources. Although he has yet to see the language of the new policy, Brown affirmed the necessity of allowing reporters to perform their duties unencumbered.

“We’ll wait to see what the policy looks like, but we know reporters will still do their jobs, and there is no shortage of legal support to back them up,” Brown stated.

Anticipated Impacts of the New Approach

Bondi indicated that despite the revisions, the DOJ aims to continue to limit the use of compelled legal action to extract information from media entities. She mentioned that any such actions will necessitate enhanced approval and advance-notice procedures, signaling a continued commitment to protect journalistic integrity even while reinforcing the DOJ’s investigative capabilities.

The Office of Legal Policy will be responsible for drafting new guidelines reflecting this policy shift, ensuring that the DOJ retains its primary institutional objectives while addressing public safety concerns.

A New Chapter in Media Relations

This move by AG Bondi may signify a crucial alteration in the relationship between the federal government and the media landscape. As efforts to enhance accountability within the intelligence community intensify, it remains essential to strike a balance between national security and the rights of journalists.

The need to maintain trust in the media’s role is imperative, especially during times of heightened scrutiny of government actions. As the DOJ begins to redefine its approach, the repercussions of these changes could resonate throughout the media industry and the broader public for years to come.

As this story develops, many will be observing how the implementation of these new policies unfolds and the implications they will have for journalists and their vital role in democracy.

Fox News Digital’s Brooke Singman contributed to this report.