White House denies press access to CNN, Politico, and MS Now reporters

Reporters from CNN, Politico, and MS Now were denied entry to the White House on Thursday morning, despite a recent federal court ruling by Judge Timothy Kelly that temporarily suspended President Donald Trump’s ban on their access. The judge had previously stated the ban likely violated constitutional rights to due process.

The Department of Justice has defended the restrictions, arguing in court documents that “access to the White House is a privilege, not a right.” The administration contends that the President has the authority to control access to restricted presidential areas, such as the Oval Office, to protect national security information. The DOJ further alleged that the plaintiffs have been involved in reporting incidents that pose direct threats to national security.

Lawyers for the media outlets are seeking an urgent court hearing, arguing that the White House has repeatedly violated the order to restore journalist access. The ongoing dispute has disrupted live television coverage of the President and impacted the White House press corps. This legal battle serves as a significant test of First Amendment protections regarding press freedom.