Alexandria, Virginia — Federal agents raided the home of Washington Post reporter Hannah Natanson early Wednesday in what the newspaper described as a “highly unusual and aggressive” action, prompting sharp criticism from press freedom advocates who warned the move could chill investigative journalism.
According to the Washington Post and The Guardian, FBI agents searched Natanson’s residence as part of an investigation into Aurelio Perez-Lugones, a Maryland-based government contractor with top-secret clearance accused of improperly retaining classified intelligence materials. The search reportedly included the seizure of Natanson’s phone and Garmin watch. The Post said it is reviewing and monitoring the situation.
Attorney General Pam Bondi confirmed the raid in a post on X, stating that the Justice Department and FBI executed a warrant tied to allegations that a Pentagon contractor illegally leaked classified information. Bondi said the Trump administration would not tolerate leaks that pose risks to national security, but provided no additional details about why a journalist’s home was searched rather than pursuing alternative investigative steps.
Former Washington Post executive editor Marty Baron called the raid an “appalling sign” of escalating pressure on the independent press. Bruce D. Brown of the Reporters’ Committee for Freedom of the Press said searches of journalists’ homes and devices are among the most intrusive actions law enforcement can take and are supposed to be reserved for extreme cases. Knight First Amendment Institute director Jameel Jaffer similarly urged the Justice Department to publicly explain why the search was necessary and legally justified.
Natanson covers the federal workforce and has reported extensively on internal changes during President Donald Trump’s second term.
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