White House Bars Associated Press from Oval Office, Air Force One Over Gulf of Mexico Naming Dispute
The White House has indefinitely blocked Associated Press (AP) journalists from accessing the Oval Office and Air Force One, citing the news agency’s refusal to adopt the Gulf of America as the official name for the Gulf of Mexico. White House Deputy Chief of Staff Taylor Budowich announced the decision on X, stating, “The Associated Press continues to ignore the lawful geographic name change of the Gulf of America. This decision is not just divisive, but it also exposes the AP’s commitment to misinformation.” Budowich further accused the 175-year-old news agency—whose style guide is widely used by global journalists—of “irresponsible and dishonest reporting.” While AP reporters and photographers will retain credentials to the White House complex, they will be barred from select events, including executive order signings and presidential travel on Air Force One. On Friday, an AP journalist was blocked from attending an Oval Office event, with a White House official reportedly telling them, “No, sorry,” when they attempted to enter. The New York Times has condemned the move, calling it “a repeated act of retribution” against press freedom. AP’s Executive Editor, Julie Pace, described the White House’s actions as an attempt to “punish” independent journalism and a “clear violation” of the First Amendment. The controversy stems from Trump’s unilateral decision to rename the Gulf of Mexico to Gulf of America—a change that only holds authority within U.S. federal documents. In response, the AP released a statement confirming it would continue using “Gulf of Mexico” in its reporting. The ban on AP journalists could significantly impact White House coverage, as the agency provides news to numerous local and national outlets that lack dedicated Washington correspondents. Critics argue that Trump’s move sets a dangerous precedent, while his supporters view it as a stand against biased media. Source: Guardian
