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House Panel Subpoenas Reporter Over Post Naming Delta Force Commander

The dispute tests whether highlighting a special-operations leader tied to the Venezuela mission qualifies as protected journalism.

Overview

  • The House Oversight Committee voted unanimously with bipartisan support to compel Seth Harp's testimony and referred his conduct to the Department of Justice.
  • Rep. Anna Paulina Luna led the move, alleging Harp doxxed a Delta Force officer and revealed classified details of Operation Absolute Resolve.
  • Harp posted the officer’s name, photo, and biographical information, including the spouse’s first name, and argues the material was publicly available.
  • Press freedom advocates say the subpoena chills lawful reporting and note journalists can publish classified information they did not illegally obtain.
  • Military identities in units like Delta Force are typically protected for security, while Harp contends identifying a senior figure in a major operation serves the public interest.