-By ArdorComm News Network
February 28, 2025
The White House announced on Tuesday that its officials will now decide which news outlets can regularly cover President Donald Trump up close, marking a significant departure from a century-old tradition where an independent press pool held the president accountable on behalf of the American public.
The move, alongside the government’s arguments in a federal lawsuit filed by The Associated Press over media access, has sparked concerns among free speech advocates and journalists. Critics argue that it represents an unprecedented attempt to control coverage of the presidency, potentially limiting transparency and press freedom.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt defended the decision, stating that the changes aim to modernize the press pool by rotating traditional outlets and incorporating streaming services. She framed the shift as a way to enhance inclusivity and restore access to the American people who elected Trump. However, media experts warn that allowing the president to selectively choose coverage raises serious First Amendment concerns.
Three major wire services that distribute news globally criticized the decision, emphasizing that restricting press access could hinder the dissemination of reliable information about the U.S. president. Free speech advocates have also voiced alarm, warning that such control over media access sets a dangerous precedent for democracy.
The announcement adds to growing tensions between the Trump administration and the press, with concerns that limiting access could undermine journalistic independence and public accountability.
Source: Business Standard