US DOJ investigates major TV networks over White House press pool boycott

The U.S. Department of Justice is conducting a criminal investigation into five major television networks—ABC, CBS, CNN, NBC, and Fox News—regarding a potential violation of the Sherman Act. The investigation focuses on whether the networks engaged in an illegal group boycott by collectively deciding not to participate in the White House television press pool.

The networks issued a joint statement in September announcing they would not resume their coverage turns in the pool. This action followed the White House's decision to veto CNN from the group, citing what officials described as false information. The boycott resulted in a temporary reduction of video footage and coverage of presidential activities, including ceremonies involving Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Legal experts have expressed differing views on the viability of the case. Some suggest the investigation is serious, while others argue that the networks' actions were motivated by First Amendment expression and solidarity rather than commercial anti-competitive intent. Under Section 1 of the Sherman Act, group boycotts are illegal if they are designed to stifle competition or restrict trade among competitors.