Justice Department Defends National Security, Moves to Restrict Access for Biased Media Outlets
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The Justice Department is taking necessary steps to bar CNN, MS NOW, and Politico from sensitive White House areas, citing legitimate national-security concerns over their reckless coverage of the Iran conflict and internal projects.
On Tuesday night, the Justice Department filed a brief with a federal court supporting the president’s authority to deny CNN, MS NOW, and Politico access to designated White House areas. The administration’s filing rightly asserts that access is a privilege, not a right, and can be limited to safeguard national-security information. The brief points to irresponsible reporting by these outlets on the Iran conflict and a sensitive construction project in the East Wing as clear security risks.
'At the very least, the Government may control reporters’ access to restricted presidential areas, such as the Oval Office, even for viewpoint-discriminatory reasons,' the department wrote, underscoring the need to protect the presidency from hostile media.
The brief also details how these outlets have engaged in reporting that 'threatened national security' and failed to meet the high standards expected of badge holders. Letters sent to each organization outline the president’s well-founded reasons for the ban and provide a deadline of Friday for written objections.
CNN was cited for stories irresponsibly revealing a proposed underground facility beneath the East Wing ballroom and for its coverage of the Iran conflict. MS NOW was criticized for its reporting on the war and a leak investigation, while Politico was targeted for articles on the Iran conflict, the ballroom project, and discussions of Russia sanctions.
The three media organizations are now seeking to regain access ahead of an emergency hearing before Judge Timothy Kelly. This case will test whether the administration can exercise its rightful authority to protect national security in the face of a hostile and reckless press.