Justice Department weighed naming Times conspirator
The Justice Department considered identifying The New York Times as a conspirator in its case concerning alleged leaks by former FBI director James Comey, the newspaper reported. It remains unclear whether prosecutors will proceed. Such a step would represent a major escalation in the administration's conflict with news organisations and could reshape press-law boundaries.
Why it matters
Treating a newspaper as part of a criminal conspiracy would carry significant consequences for reporting based on government sources.
Sources
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Part of the November 9, 2026 brief.