Trump suggests those who leak government information should ‘be shot’

Key Points:

• President Donald Trump stated at a campaign rally in Arizona that individuals who leak information to the media "should be shot," referencing historical military practices and expressing strong condemnation of leakers.
• Trump linked his remarks to a leaked preliminary Defense Intelligence Agency report following the 2025 US surprise attack on Iran, accusing media outlets like The New York Times and CNN of endangering military personnel by revealing operational details.
• The Trump administration has aggressively pursued leak investigations, requiring polygraph tests for staff and military personnel, and issuing subpoenas to major news organizations to identify sources of classified information.
• Trump has consistently targeted leakers throughout his political career, previously calling for harsh punishments and blaming Democratic lawmakers for unauthorized disclosures related to military operations.
• The president reiterated his harsh stance on leaks ahead of the November 3 midterm elections, labeling leakers as "the scum of the earth" and urging strong consequences for those who disclose confidential information.