Jim Acosta, a former CNN correspondent, is familiar with being barred from the White House. In 2018, his press pass was revoked by President Trump after a contentious news briefing. A federal judge temporarily restored it, and the White House eventually relented.
Currently, CNN, MS NOW, and Politico face similar bans. The stakes are higher, according to Acosta, as these organizations have filed lawsuits alleging First and Fifth Amendment rights violations. Major networks have refused to replace CNN in the White House video pool. NPR has also decided not to use audio from White House events in solidarity.
“This is aimed at three specific news organizations, and we just can’t allow that to happen,” Acosta told NPR’s Morning Edition. He emphasized the importance of media solidarity, noting past restrictions on the Associated Press over naming disputes.
Trump cites the reason for barring these outlets as unfair coverage. A study by the Media Research Center suggests that 92% of coverage during his second term’s initial 100 days was negative. The administration argues that the First Amendment protects publishing rights but not necessarily press access to the White House.
Acosta disagrees with viewing coverage as simply positive or negative. He insists the press’s role is to report crucial information to the public. “Do we just allow truth to become lies and lies to become truth,” he asks, “or do we ensure the public receives fair, accurate information at all times?”
Listen to the full interview by clicking the provided button. The digital version was edited by Treye Green.