From NPR · · 1m 20s
Trump bans CNN, MSNBC and Politico from White House
The president cites unfavorable coverage and threatens more media restrictions, testing First Amendment press freedoms.
In brief
The president cites unfavorable coverage and threatens more media restrictions, testing First Amendment press freedoms. Trump is using White House access as a tool to punish news outlets he views as hostile, escalating a pattern of legal action against media organizations. Originally reported by NPR.
Trump bans three major outlets
President Trump announced Friday he is immediately banning CNN, MSNBC and Politico from the White House, citing what he calls their constant fake news coverage.
“I am banning CNN, MS NOW and Politico from the White House as a result of their constant 'reporting' FAKE NEWS!”
More bans could follow
Trump threatened that additional media outlets could face similar restrictions, signaling this is part of a broader effort to control press access.
“Other Fake News Media Outlets to follow.”
Pattern of legal action against media
Trump has filed lawsuits against The New York Times, Wall Street Journal and BBC since returning to office, and previously sued the Associated Press over its refusal to rename the Gulf of Mexico.
CNN ban threatens press pool tradition
Banning CNN is especially significant because it could disrupt the five-network television pool that travels with the president to provide independent coverage of his actions for Americans and the world.
First Amendment protections at stake
The ban tests constitutional protections guaranteeing freedom of the press, raising questions about whether a president can restrict media access based on coverage he dislikes.
At a glance
Trump is using White House access as a tool to punish news outlets he views as hostile, escalating a pattern of legal action against media organizations.
