Key television pool members, including FOX News Media, ABC News, CBS News, CNN, and NBC News, have announced a halt on their pooled coverage of President Donald Trump. This decision comes after President Trump imposed a ban on certain media outlets, specifically CNN, MS NOW, and Politico, claiming they spread ‘fake news.’ On Monday, CNN was slated to represent the White House pool. Traditionally, pool members alternate in covering the President and sharing the gathered footage.
In a collective statement, the media organizations emphasized, “The public has a vital interest in receiving accurate, independent information about its government. No administration should restrict a news organization because it objects to its reporting.”
The announcement coincided with a planned lawsuit by the banned outlets, CNN, MS NOW, and Politico. They stated, “This morning, we notified the government that we are filing a lawsuit today to protect our First Amendment rights and defend the principle that the government does not decide what the press reports or publishes.” They further asserted that the White House revoked their journalists’ credentials without prior notice or due process, threatening press freedom and the right to independent journalism.
In response, President Trump addressed the issue on Truth Social, asserting his actions target ‘fake news’ rather than the free press. He posted, “The White House is not instituting an assault on the Free Press, something which I cherish. It is instituting an assault on the FAKE NEWS, something that has grown like Cancer in our beloved United States of America. It is corrupt, purposeful, pervasive, fully coordinated, and totally out of control. It is a threat to our National Security, and must be stopped, NOW!”
Previously, attempts by the Trump administration to ban specific media outlets and journalists have been overturned by federal judges.
Updates to this situation will be provided as additional information becomes available.
For further insights into media and culture, visit our site. Contact Brian Flood with story tips, or follow him on Twitter at @briansflood.
Debate Over ICE Action in Austin Escalates 
Hayden Panettiere’s Cause of Death Ruled Accidental Due to Drug Toxicity 
Two Pilots Killed in Helicopter Crash Fighting Yosemite Park Wildfire 
Alarming TSA Discovery: Hidden Object Found in Flashlight 
Homeland Security Takes Action Against Voter Fraud 
Evacuation Orders Issued in La Verne Due to Battery Fire