From Seattletimes · · 1m 40s
Trump Bans CNN MS NOW and Politico from White House
Trump threatens to ban CNN, MS NOW and Politico from White House over 'fake news' claims.
In brief
Trump threatens to ban CNN, MS NOW and Politico from White House over 'fake news' claims. President Trump banned CNN, MS NOW and Politico from White House citing 'fake news' coverage, sparking First Amendment concerns. Originally reported by Seattletimes.
Trump targets media outlets
President Donald Trump said he was barring CNN, MS NOW and Politico from the White House due to unfavorable coverage and 'fake news'.
“I am banning CNN, MS NOW and Politico from the White House as a result of their constant 'reporting' FAKE NEWS!”
Trump's fake news claims
Trump called CNN's coverage 'fake' and said its ratings are no good, while labeling MS NOW and Politico's stories as fake news.
“When you look at CNN, it’s just fake. That’s why their ratings are no good.”
Media outlets respond
CNN stated it stands behind its White House team and their fair and accurate reporting, calling the ban an illegal assault on constitutional rights.
“We have a right under the U.S. Constitution to do that reporting without hindrance or interference from the government.”
First Amendment concerns
Legal experts warn Trump's actions risk viewpoint discrimination, a violation of First Amendment rights that could lead to court challenges.
“Banning news organizations from the White House based on the administration’s disapproval of their coverage is a clear attempt to control which voices are allowed to witness and report on the exercise of presidential power.”
Historical context
Trump has previously barred AP reporters from Oval Office access over the Gulf of Mexico naming dispute, leading to ongoing legal action.
“The AP said that it would note when appropriate that Trump had ordered it renamed the Gulf of America.”
White House access implications
The ban could disrupt the traditional five-network television pool that tracks presidential movements and provides independent coverage.
“CNN was traveling with the vice president on Friday to Iowa.”
Support for Trump's move
Trump's defense secretary Pete Hegseth praised the decision, calling it a necessary step to protect against fake news outlets.
“The Department of War fully supports President Trump’s decision to kick CNN, MS NOW and Politico to the curb so they can publish their Fake News from outside the White House.”
Legal precedent
The 1977 Sherrill v. Knight case established that once the White House provides press facilities, it cannot deny access based on coverage content.
“The court held that any denial must serve a compelling government interest and that the journalist must receive notice, the chance to respond and a final answer in writing.”
Trump's next moves
Trump plans to take the press pool to his golf club in Virginia for a meeting and dinner before spending the weekend at Camp David.
“He later planned to take the press pool to his golf club in Virginia for a meeting and dinner sponsored by his Super PAC before spending the weekend at Camp David.”
The takeaway
President Trump banned CNN, MS NOW and Politico from White House citing 'fake news' coverage, sparking First Amendment concerns.
