From BBC News · · 1m 40s
Judge delays ruling on Trump's ban of three news outlets
A federal court heard arguments over whether the White House can strip CNN, Politico and MS NOW of press credentials.
In brief
A federal court heard arguments over whether the White House can strip CNN, Politico and MS NOW of press credentials. The case hinges on whether the president can exclude news organisations from the White House based on disliking their coverage, or whether this violates press freedom rights. Originally reported by BBC…
Trump bars three news outlets
President Trump revoked White House press credentials for CNN, Politico and MS NOW last week, accusing them of spreading fake news. The 78 reporters from these outlets lost access to the building.
Media outlets sue for access
The three news organisations jointly filed legal action, arguing the ban is unconstitutional and violates their First Amendment rights to press freedom. They asked a federal judge for a temporary restraining order to restore their passes.
“Without notice or process, the White House revoked our journalists' credentials because it objected to our reporting.”
Media argues retaliation, not security
The outlets' lawyer said Trump invented national security justifications after the ban, since his original announcement only cited dislike of their reporting. He called it viewpoint discrimination and a violation of due process.
“The viewpoint discrimination is probably the clearest case in history.”
Justice Department defends exclusion
A Justice Department lawyer argued that White House access is a privilege, not a right, and the president can exclude anyone he wants. The government cited national security concerns and alleged reporting incidents.
“Access to the White House is a privilege, not a right.”
Judge delays decision on ban
Federal Judge Timothy Kelly heard arguments on Wednesday but said he would rule as soon as he could. The decision will determine whether the three outlets regain temporary access while the case proceeds.
Media industry rallies behind outlets
Forty-nine news organisations, including CBS News, The New York Times and Fox News, filed a legal brief supporting the lawsuit. Major TV networks also withdrew from the White House media pool in protest.
At a glance
The case hinges on whether the president can exclude news organisations from the White House based on disliking their coverage, or whether this violates press freedom rights.
