A federal judge on Thursday ordered the restoration of White House press credentials for CNN, MS NOW, and Politico, ending a six-day ban imposed by the Trump administration. District Judge Timothy Kelly ruled that revoking the outlets’ access likely violated their constitutional due process rights, citing the government’s failure to provide notice or an opportunity to respond before stripping their credentials. The decision came after the three networks were initially barred from the White House on Friday for distributing what President Donald Trump labeled as 'fake news' and 'fiction and lies.'
Journalists from the three outlets were turned away by the Secret Service on Thursday morning as they attempted to return ahead of Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit but were later permitted entry around midday. Reporters from other media outlets gathered near CNN’s tent on the White House driveway, filming correspondent Betsy Klein as she delivered live reports following her return. 'Welcome back,' several journalists said to CNN staff, reflecting the tense atmosphere surrounding the reinstatement. The networks had sought an urgent court hearing after being denied access despite the judge’s order, highlighting ongoing disputes over press freedoms.
In his ruling, Judge Kelly emphasized that the government must adhere to due process when depriving individuals of constitutionally protected interests. 'The general rule is that individuals must receive notice and an opportunity to be heard before the government deprives them of a constitutionally protected interest,' he stated. The Trump administration had defended the ban, with the Department of Justice arguing that White House access is a 'privilege, not a right,' and that the president has authority to control reporters’ entry into restricted areas. The outlets, however, contended the restriction violated the First Amendment, leading to a joint lawsuit seeking a temporary restraining order.
The case underscores broader tensions between executive power and press freedoms, with Trump frequently criticizing media outlets that publish critical coverage of his administration. The ruling sets a precedent for how government actions affecting press access are scrutinized, particularly during high-profile events. While the immediate dispute was resolved, the legal battle highlights ongoing debates over the balance between presidential authority and constitutional protections for journalists. The White House press corps now faces renewed scrutiny over the conditions under which access is granted or revoked.