The White House television pool is pushing back after President Donald Trump barred CNN and MS NOW alongside Politico. Fox News, ABC News, CBS News, and NBC News joined CNN in condemning the administration’s decision.
What We Know: The television pool members issued a joint statement Monday after Trump announced Friday that CNN, MS NOW, and Politico would lose White House access over what he called dishonest coverage. Reporters from the three outlets were turned away Saturday, with credentials revoked or confiscated. Trump escalated his criticism Monday, describing the coverage as a national security risk. Reuters reported that the administration offered no evidence supporting that characterization.
What They Said: “The public has a vital interest in receiving accurate, independent information about its government. No administration should restrict a news organization because it objects to its reporting.” -White House television pool members joint statement
What Remains Unclear: The administration hasn’t provided a detailed explanation for why the three outlets received different treatment from other White House news organizations. Meanwhile, CNN, MS NOW, and Politico announced Monday that they’re filing a First Amendment lawsuit seeking to restore their access.
What It Means: The dispute has also disrupted the television pool’s traditional coverage responsibilities. CNN was scheduled to provide pooled video coverage, but the pool said it wouldn’t provide coverage for presidential events while the access issue remains unresolved.
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