The White House announced on Tuesday a significant change in its press access policy, declaring that it will now determine which news outlets have access to President Donald Trump. This decision, revealed by Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, marks a shift from the previous arrangement managed by the White House Correspondents' Association (WHCA). The alteration has sparked concerns regarding media independence and access, particularly as the Trump administration plans to take over the logistics of the press pool after more than a century under WHCA management.
The current pool of reporters, which includes representatives from major U.S. networks, radio correspondents, and a rotating group of print outlets, has been traditionally coordinated by the WHCA. The association expressed its disapproval of the White House's unilateral decision, emphasizing that they were not informed prior to the announcement. The WHCA fears that this move will allow the administration to favor news outlets it perceives as sympathetic.
"The White House press team in this administration will determine who gets to enjoy the very privileged and limited access in spaces such as Air Force One and the Oval Office." – Karoline Leavitt
In the new arrangement, legacy media outlets will continue to participate in the pool, but Leavitt noted that "new voices are going to be welcomed in as well." The administration argues that this change is intended to democratize access and "restore power back to the American people." However, critics, including WHCA members, argue that this assertion is misleading.
"This move does not give power back to the people – it gives power to the White House." – Jacqui Heinrich
The White House's decision has already led to tensions with certain media outlets. The Associated Press (AP), for instance, has been excluded from press events due to a dispute over terminology. The AP refused to adopt the term "Gulf of America," as mandated by an executive order from President Trump. As a result, it has faced bans from accessing White House press events and Air Force One. The AP contends that this ban is retaliatory and infringes on its First Amendment rights.
"Tears at the independence of a free press" – White House Correspondents' Association (WHCA)
A hearing is scheduled for March 20 to address these issues and discuss the broader implications of the White House's new policy. The WHCA has been vocal about its concerns that this decision undermines the independence of the press and could lead to biased reporting.
Despite these concerns, President Trump reaffirmed the administration's stance, stating that they will be "calling those shots" regarding which media outlets gain access. This move represents a significant shift in how presidential access has been managed historically, raising questions about fairness and transparency.
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