CNN, MS NOW and Politico filed a lawsuit Monday against U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration after their reporters were blocked from entering the White House over the weekend.
The three news organizations say the ban violates the First Amendment, which protects freedom of the press. Their lawsuit argues the government cannot deny journalists access simply because it dislikes their reporting.
The dispute began Friday when Trump announced the outlets would be barred over what he called “fake news.” On Saturday, reporters from all three organizations had their White House press credentials deactivated and were turned away.
In a joint statement, the outlets said the White House revoked their access without notice or due process, calling it a direct attack on press freedom.
The White House did not immediately respond to the lawsuit. Trump defended the decision on Truth Social, saying he supports a free press but believes “fake news” is harmful to the United States.
The case has been assigned to U.S. District Judge Timothy Kelly, who was appointed by Trump during his first term.
