Federal Judge Blocks White House Ban on CNN, MS NOW and Politico

U.S. District Judge Timothy Kelly granted a 14-day temporary restraining order early Thursday, requiring the White House to restore press credentials for CNN, MS NOW and Politico. The judge said the outlets are likely to succeed in their lawsuit because their passes were revoked without notice or an opportunity to be heard, violating due-process requirements.

In his ruling, Kelly rejected the administration’s claim that the ban was motivated by national-security concerns, noting the White House provided little evidence to support that argument. He also pointed out that the cited articles—ranging from reports on munitions stockpiles to a request for funding renovations—were routine and did not justify the abrupt revocation.

President Donald Trump had announced the ban on Truth Social, describing the outlets as “totally disloyal” and accusing them of publishing “fake news.” He later referred to the policy as a “ban on the free press” and said he did not want the reporters in the Oval Office.

The three news organizations argue that the ban was retaliation for unfavorable coverage and that it infringes on First Amendment rights. Their legal brief, filed with the Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press and other media groups, contends the action is viewpoint-based discrimination and conflicts with established Supreme Court precedent.

The White House has not responded to requests for comment. The order remains in effect while the case proceeds.