FBI denies report it investigates Atlantic journalist over Patel article

11 articles · Updated · Fox News · May 6

Assistant Director Ben Williamson said on X that reporter Sarah Fitzpatrick was not under investigation, rejecting MS NOW's claim of a criminal leak probe.
The disputed Atlantic article alleged Kash Patel had emotional outbursts, excessive drinking and unexplained absences; Patel has called it false and sued the magazine for $250 million.
The Atlantic said any such probe would threaten press freedom and vowed to defend its staff, while standing by its reporting and calling Patel's lawsuit meritless.

Can a $250 million lawsuit overcome the high legal standard protecting journalists who report on powerful public officials?

With government protections for journalists rolled back, what does this dispute signal for the future of investigative reporting?