WASHINGTON: CNN, MS NOW and Politico sued US President Donald Trump on Monday over a White House decision to bar their journalists from the grounds, arguing that the move violates their First Amendment rights and restricts independent press coverage of the administration.
The three media organisations filed the lawsuit in federal court in Washington, DC, after their journalists were denied access to the White House and their press credentials were confiscated.
In their complaint, the outlets argued that the administration cannot exclude news organisations because of unfavorable coverage and selectively provide access to media outlets that report more positively on Trump.
Why Did the Media Outlets File the Lawsuit?
The organisations said the ban was imposed without notice or due process and could interfere with the public’s access to information about the government.
They said the lawsuit seeks to protect their constitutional rights and the principle that government officials should not determine what journalists report or publish.
The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
How Has Trump Responded to the Lawsuit?
Trump defended the decision in a social media post, rejecting claims that the administration was restricting the free press. He described the targeted outlets as “FAKE NEWS” and alleged that their reporting posed a national security threat, without providing evidence.
The administration has changed long-standing White House media-access practices, limiting access for some major news organisations while providing opportunities to newer outlets considered more supportive of Trump.
The Associated Press, the White House Correspondents’ Association and other media groups have also criticised the restrictions. AP previously filed a lawsuit after it was excluded from a White House press rotation involving reporters covering the president’s daily activities.