WASHINGTON: Major US television networks halted joint White House coverage on Monday in protest against President Donald Trump’s decision to bar CNN, MS NOW and Politico from the White House, escalating a dispute over media access and press freedom.
ABC, CBS, CNN, Fox and NBC said they would suspend participation in the traditional White House “pool” system, where one broadcaster provides footage and reporting access for other networks.
The move came after Trump announced Friday that the three media organisations would no longer be allowed access to the White House, accusing them of publishing what he described as false reports about his administration.
Networks challenge White House decision
CNN, MS NOW and Politico have taken legal action against the decision, arguing that the restrictions violate constitutional protections for a free press.
The organisations filed a lawsuit seeking a temporary restraining order, calling the ban a violation of First Amendment protections.
A US district judge is scheduled to hear arguments on the case on Wednesday.
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The dispute meant Trump’s appearance at the opening of a new White House helipad and his visit to the United Nations General Assembly in New York were not covered through the usual live television pool system.
Trump defends media restrictions
Trump defended his decision, saying the White House was targeting what he called “fake news” rather than restricting legitimate journalism.
“The White House is not instituting an assault on the Free Press,” Trump said on his Truth Social platform, arguing that the action was aimed at outlets he accused of spreading misinformation.
Vice President JD Vance also defended the move, saying the outlets could continue reporting but would not receive dedicated access inside the White House.
The White House later launched a streaming channel called “Trump TV”, which it said would provide speeches, remarks and other content directly to viewers.
Press access dispute grows
The controversy has intensified tensions between Trump and major US media organisations, following years of disputes over coverage of his political campaigns and administration.
The White House Correspondents Association and several press freedom groups have criticised restrictions on journalists’ access, while the administration has argued that media organisations should not receive special privileges if they publish inaccurate reports.
The legal challenge is expected to determine whether the White House can restrict access for specific news organisations based on disagreements over their reporting.
