US news networks boycott presidential events over CNN ban

Major television news networks, including ABC, CBS, and Fox News, have launched a collective boycott of presidential press events to protest the White House's decision to bar CNN from its scheduled rotation. The move follows the administration's restriction of CNN, MS Now, and Politico from covering White House activities, including a recent ceremony for a new helicopter landing pad.

In response to the restrictions, CNN, MS Now, and Politico have filed lawsuits alleging that the administration's actions violate the First Amendment and infringe upon press freedom. The White House press pool issued a joint statement asserting that the public has a significant interest in accessing accurate and independent information, and that no government should limit coverage rights simply due to dissatisfaction with a news outlet's reporting.

The boycott means that certain presidential activities will temporarily lack video coverage from the official television press pool. This controversy arrives amid preparations for a state visit by Chinese President Xi Jinping and as the administration faces scrutiny over economic concerns and upcoming midterm elections.