From Today · · 1m 10s
Federal Judge Blocks Trump's Media Ban
A federal judge halted Trump's attempt to ban CNN, MSNBC, and Politico from White House press access.
In brief
A federal judge halted Trump's attempt to ban CNN, MSNBC, and Politico from White House press access. Courts can block executive actions that restrict press freedom, even when issued by the president. Originally reported by Today.
Judge blocks Trump media ban
A federal judge halted Trump's attempt to ban CNN, MSNBC, and Politico from White House press access, ruling the action violated First Amendment rights.
Which outlets faced the ban
CNN, MSNBC's Morning Joe, and Politico were targeted by Trump's order restricting their access to White House press events and facilities.
Trump's authority argument
The administration claimed the president has broad power to control who accesses White House facilities and press events as part of executive authority.
First Amendment violation
The judge ruled that banning news outlets from press access violates the First Amendment and sets a dangerous precedent for government control of media.
What the ruling means
The decision protects press access to the White House and signals courts will intervene when presidents attempt to restrict media freedom through executive action.
The big picture
Courts can block executive actions that restrict press freedom, even when issued by the president.
