Judge Orders Trump White House to Restore Access for CNN, MS Now and Politico
A US federal judge has temporarily lifted the Trump administration's ban on White House access for CNN, MS Now and Politico, ruling the restriction was likely unconstitutional. The order blocks enforcement for 14 days while the outlets' lawsuit proceeds.
A US federal judge has ordered the Trump administration to temporarily restore White House access for journalists from CNN, MS Now and Politico, after concluding that the ban on the three outlets was likely unconstitutional. The ruling, issued by US district judge Tim Kelly, marks a significant legal setback for the administration's efforts to restrict press credentials at the White House.
The ban was announced by President Donald Trump on 18 September, prompting the three news organisations to file a lawsuit contesting the decision. Judge Kelly's order blocks the administration from enforcing the ban for 14 days, allowing the journalists to resume their duties while the legal challenge continues. The judge said the ban likely violated constitutional protections, though he did not issue a final ruling on the merits of the case.
During a court hearing, Judge Kelly questioned the administration's handling of the matter, noting that Trump did not follow proper process when the press passes were abruptly revoked. The judge's comments suggested that the White House's actions lacked the procedural footing normally required for such decisions, adding weight to the outlets' argument that the ban was arbitrary and retaliatory.
The lawsuit, filed by CNN, MS Now and Politico, argued that the ban violated the First Amendment. The outlets contended that denying them White House access impeded their ability to report on the president and his administration, effectively punishing them for their coverage. The temporary restoration of access is a preliminary victory for the news organisations, but the broader legal battle over press freedom and executive power is expected to continue.
The case has drawn attention to the tense relationship between the Trump administration and major media outlets. The White House has not yet indicated whether it will appeal the judge's order or seek to reinstate the ban through other means. For now, correspondents from the three outlets can once again enter the White House grounds and attend press briefings, though the long-term outcome remains uncertain.
Media advocacy groups have welcomed the ruling as a reaffirmation of the role of a free press in holding power to account. The 14-day window gives the court time to consider further arguments, and both sides are expected to present additional evidence and legal reasoning. The decision underscores the ongoing debate over the boundaries of presidential authority and the constitutional guarantees that protect journalists' access to government institutions.
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