From Vox · Cameron Peters · · 1m 20s
Trump's short-lived press ban
A federal court ordered the White House to restore press credentials for CNN, Politico, and MS NOW just hours after Trump banned them.
In brief
A federal court ordered the White House to restore press credentials for CNN, Politico, and MS NOW just hours after Trump banned them. Trump's attempt to ban major news outlets from the White House lasted less than a day before a court forced their reinstatement. Originally reported by Vox.
Trump bans three major outlets
President Trump announced on Friday that CNN, Politico, and MS NOW were banned from the White House, accusing them of publishing false stories.
“shouldn't be able to constantly write or report FICTION and LIES”
Court orders immediate reinstatement
A federal district court ruled Thursday morning that the White House must immediately restore press credentials for the three outlets. Reporters were allowed back in around noon, nearly 11 hours after the order.
National security claim falls flat
The White House claimed the ban was necessary for national security, but Judge Timothy Kelly, a Trump appointee, found little evidence to support it. One unnamed source the administration complained about was Vice President JD Vance.
“little to back up their asserted national security interest”
Trump's real reason: frustration
Trump told reporters the ban was about cumulative frustration with coverage over two years. He said, "You get sick of it," suggesting the national security justification was secondary.
“it's really just cumulative stories of the last two years. You get sick of it.”
Fight continues in court
Thursday's ruling was only a temporary restraining order lasting 14 days. Judge Kelly will rule on a more permanent preliminary injunction, and Trump has already promised to appeal.
The essence
Trump's attempt to ban major news outlets from the White House lasted less than a day before a court forced their reinstatement.
