The three media organizations that were banned from the White House by President Donald Trump have taken legal action, citing the First Amendment. CNN, Politico, and MS NOW announced they are initiating a lawsuit to regain their access.
In a statement released on Monday, the outlets emphasized their intention to safeguard press freedom. They declared, “This morning, we notified the government that we are filing a lawsuit today to protect our First Amendment rights and defend the principle that the government does not decide what the press reports or publishes.”
The statement detailed the sudden revocation of their journalists’ White House credentials, explaining that it was due to the administration’s displeasure with their reporting. They warned of the potential consequences, stating, “Left unchallenged, this threatens press freedom and the public’s right to independent journalism free from government interference.”
President Trump commented on the decision through Truth Social, criticizing the outlets for what he described as “constant ‘reporting’ FAKE NEWS!” He expressed his view that media should not present fiction and falsehoods about his administration. “Other Fake News Media Outlets to follow,” he added.
On Saturday morning, the ban was enforced as reporters from these organizations were denied entry to the White House. Akayla Gardner, MS NOW’s White House correspondent, reported on air that her access badge was taken away.
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