US under Trump: After Air-Force-One report: US Justice summons NewNew York TimesRe reporters

The U.S. Department of Justice has issued subpoenas to four reporters from The New York Times following their reporting on security concerns related to President Donald Trump’s new presidential aircraft, known as Air Force One. The journalists, Julian E. Barnes, Eric Lipton, Tyler Pager, and Eric Schmitt, were notified by federal agents who arrived at their homes with the subpoenas, according to the newspaper. They are scheduled to appear before a grand jury on Wednesday in connection with a potential violation of federal criminal law. The Times described the move as “an extraordinary escalation” in efforts by Trump to intimidate independent media organizations. The controversy centers around a report published by the New York Times, which cited anonymous sources alleging that the new Air Force One, a modified Boeing 747-8 donated by Qatar, lacks certain security features present in the older model used previously. These include less frequently utilized missile defense capabilities. According to the report, the newer plane was deemed “only marginally suitable” for overseas travel due to these deficiencies. In response, Trump unexpectedly returned to using the older aircraft this week, despite having spent hundreds of millions of dollars converting the new one into his official presidential jet. He praised the new plane as offering “a level of luxury never seen before.” Federal authorities have not confirmed nor denied the existence of the subpoenas, though the Justice Department stated that its concern lies not with the journalists themselves, but rather with the potential unauthorized disclosure of classified information. The White House referred all media inquiries to the Justice Department, which declined to comment further. Meanwhile, the New York Times rejected an FBI request to delay publication of its story, citing national security concerns raised by the agency. The situation highlights growing tensions between the Trump administration and the press, particularly over issues involving national security and executive privilege. The Times has long been critical of Trump's policies and has faced scrutiny from government officials under previous administrations. This latest development adds to a pattern of legal actions taken against journalists covering sensitive topics, including investigations into leaks of classified material and allegations of obstruction of justice. The new Air Force One, which replaced the aging fleet used during Trump’s first term, was intended to serve as both a symbol of modernization and a practical upgrade for presidential travel. However, reports of its security shortcomings have sparked debate about whether the modifications were sufficient to meet the demands of international travel. Critics argue that the lack of advanced defensive systems could pose risks during high-profile trips abroad, while supporters of the administration maintain that the plane meets all necessary safety standards. In addition to the ongoing legal dispute, other developments continue to shape the political landscape. Earlier this week, the United States and Canada reached an agreement on the $4.7 billion Gordie Howe International Bridge connecting Detroit and Windsor, Ontario. The bridge, named after a famous Canadian ice hockey player, is set to open on July 27 after resolving disputes over toll revenue sharing. President Trump had previously threatened to block the project unless terms were more favorable to the U.S., but he later claimed to have secured a better deal for American interests. Under the final agreement, the U.S. will receive 50 percent of toll revenues and hold veto power over increases exceeding 10 percent. Separately, Trump has reportedly pressured members of the Election Assistance Commission, an independent body tasked with supporting states in organizing elections. With just four months until the midterm elections, the commission now has only three remaining members, as Trump allegedly pushed for the removal of the fourth. The commission, established in 2002 by Congress, provides federal funding to help states conduct elections, although election administration primarily falls under state jurisdiction. Recent reports indicate that the composition of the commission has become increasingly skewed toward one party, raising questions about its impartiality. As the midterms approach, the administration continues to face scrutiny over its handling of environmental regulations. The Trump administration has proposed relaxing emissions standards for commercial trucks, a move that environmental groups warn could undermine progress made in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The proposal comes amid broader debates over energy policy and climate change, with opponents arguing that such measures would harm public health and exacerbate global warming.