AP calls government's record seizure a 'massive and unprecedented intrusion'

[The Minsky Moment]

In the US a search warrant typically does have to be signed by a judge.  Usually it is a magistrate judge who technically is an Article I judge (i.e. not an Article III judicial branch judge) but practically the distinction isn't that critical.
Subpoenas are a different story.  And we don't have JP's anymore - a few states have them but even then the role has changed.

[grumbler]

Senators are congressmen; I think you meant "representative" there.

Representatives are referred to as "congressmen."  Senators are not. 

[The Brain]

I'm planning a massive and unprecedented intrusion.

[sbr]

That's HOTT