Trump Bans CNN, MS NOW, and Politico from White House Over ‘Fake News’ Claims

US President Donald Trump announced on Friday that CNN, MS NOW, and Politico are banned from reporting at the White House, effective immediately. He made the announcement on his social media platform, Truth Social, accusing the outlets of spreading “fake news” and writing fiction or lies about his administration without providing specific examples.

Later, when reporters asked if other outlets would face similar bans, Trump confirmed, stating that The New York Times and The Washington Post are also “fake news.” A White House news conference suggested the move was driven by partisan concerns, with officials claiming the outlets “purposely write negative news” to diminish the Republican administration.

CNN swiftly denounced the ban, asserting it will continue its “fair and accurate reporting” and defending its right to do so without government interference under the First Amendment. A CNN spokesperson told Al Jazeera that such a ban would constitute an “illegal assault” on constitutionally protected rights. Politico echoed these sentiments, promising to vigorously defend its First Amendment rights and refuting Trump’s separate claim that it had received government subsidies, labeling the assertion “false” and “thoroughly debunked.” MS NOW did not immediately comment.

Several press freedom organizations criticized the decision. Mark Schoeff Jr., president of the National Press Club, called it an attempt to control which voices can witness presidential power. Tim Richardson of PEN America urged Trump to explain how the First Amendment works, while Seth Stern of the Freedom of Press Foundation described the move as an attack driven by fear of an informed public.

This is not the first time Trump has restricted press access. Last year, he barred Associated Press reporters from the Oval Office and Air Force One in retaliation for their refusal to change the name of the Gulf of Mexico. AP has since filed a lawsuit challenging that ban. Throughout his second term, his administration has pursued legal and regulatory actions against outlets including The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, the BBC, and ABC.

Legal experts note that while the White House is not required to open its doors to the media, federal courts have ruled that once press credentials are granted, they cannot be denied or revoked based on content. In the 1977 case Sherrill v Knight, a appeals court held that any denial must serve a compelling government interest and include notice and an opportunity to respond. CNN previously won a court order in 2018 to reinstate Jim Acosta’s press pass after it was revoked.

It remains unclear what legal recourse the banned outlets may pursue, though Al Jazeera’s Alan Fisher reported in Washington that the ban will likely face immediate challenge, citing the strong protections of the First Amendment. Historically, presidents like Lyndon B Johnson and Richard Nixon have faced pushback when considering similar restrictions.