Holder to go over subpoena policy with news media

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DOJ / Department of JusticeIn the wake of the revelations about government probes of journalists from the Associated Press and Fox News, President Barack Obama has ordered Attorney General Eric Holder to meet face to face with news media execs to go over precisely what the policy is on the matter.


According to Hillicon Valley, executives from radio, television, newspapers, online and wire services, as well as industry trade groups, will be included in the sessions.

It will start with meetings with bureau chiefs at major newsgathering entities. Holder will explain what triggers a request for a subpoena by the Department of Justice.

Meetings with other members of the press will follow over a period of weeks.

The goal is to balance the First Amendment interests with US security and intelligence interests. The White House and Holder are said to place a high value on the necessity of strong First Amendment rights for the press as a necessary part of a democracy.