US Justice Department defends Trump’s White House ban on CNN, Politico, MS NOW

The US Justice Department has defended President Donald Trump’s decision to restrict CNN, Politico and MS NOW journalists from accessing the White House, arguing that the President has authority over access to restricted presidential areas.

The three news organisations filed a federal lawsuit after their journalists were barred from the White House grounds and had their press passes confiscated.

In a court filing, the Justice Department argued that the President can control reporters’ access to restricted areas such as the Oval Office and maintained that White House access is a privilege rather than an absolute right.

The Trump administration said letters were sent to the organisations explaining the reasons for their restrictions, including allegations that some reporting had spread falsehoods or threatened national security.

The news organisations dispute that justification and argue that the restrictions amount to retaliation for critical coverage, violating protections for press freedom and free speech under the First Amendment.

CNN, MS NOW and Politico are seeking a temporary restraining order that would restore their access while the case proceeds.

The legal dispute is therefore unresolved, and the Justice Department’s filing represents the administration’s legal position rather than a final court determination that the ban is lawful.

Trump has said he would probably allow the affected outlets back into the White House if a court rules against the administration.