Newsmax says Michigan Democrats denied the network space at the party’s election night headquarters. Congressional correspondent Kilmeny Duchardt said the party cited space limitations in rejecting the network’s request for credentials.
What We Know: Duchardt shared that she was informed by Michigan Democrats that the party wouldn’t have enough space to accommodate Newsmax at its election night headquarters. The decision comes as Michigan voters head to the polls in a closely watched midterm election, with control of the U.S. Senate among the stakes. Newsmax ranks as the nation’s fourth-highest-rated cable news network, according to Duchardt’s statement. The network says it will continue covering the election despite being denied access to the party’s headquarters.
What They Said: “Michigan Democrats denied Newsmax, the nation’s 4th highest-rated cable news network, credentials for Election Night, citing ‘space limitations.’ … With control of the Senate at stake, shutting out a national news outlet raises serious questions about press access and transparency. Our coverage will continue. But denying access means the campaign loses an opportunity to speak directly to millions of Americans watching this closely contested race.” -Kilmeny Duchardt
What Remains Unclear: Michigan Democrats haven’t publicly provided additional details about the space limitations or whether other news organizations received similar responses. It’s also unclear whether Newsmax sought alternative arrangements to gain access to the party’s election night event.
What It Means: The decision raises questions about how political campaigns determine which news organizations receive access to election night headquarters. Meanwhile, Newsmax’s exclusion could limit the network’s ability to interview Democratic candidates and party officials as election results arrive.
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