Key facts
- Reporters from Politico, CNN, and MS NOW were initially denied White House access on Thursday.
- U.S. District Judge Timothy Kelly ruled the ban likely unconstitutional.
- CNN and MS NOW reporters were later allowed back into the White House.
- Politico also reported that one of its reporters was eventually granted entry.
- Several television networks suspended coverage in solidarity with the barred outlets.
Reporters from Politico, CNN, and MS NOW were initially denied access to the White House on Thursday, despite a judge's order to restore their press credentials. U.S. District Judge Timothy Kelly had issued a temporary restraining order mandating the administration reinstate access for at least two weeks while further litigation proceeds.
CNN and MS NOW reporters were later allowed back into the White House. Politico also reported that one of its reporters was eventually granted entry. The White House had previously barred the outlets, with President Donald Trump initially citing "fake news" and the administration later citing national security concerns.
The denials came as the White House prepared for a state visit from Chinese leader Xi Jinping, which includes events on White House grounds. The Justice Department had argued for the ban to be retained until after the visit concluded, citing national security. Attorneys for the media outlets countered that the visit was a newsworthy event requiring immediate access.
In solidarity with the three outlets, several major television networks, including ABC, CBS, NBC, and Fox News, had suspended their regular pool duties and declined to disseminate photos. More than 50 media organizations filed an amicus brief supporting the lawsuit.