CNN Blocked from Air Force One Amid White House-Media Tensions
As the crisis between the White House and the press deepens, the administration blocked CNN from participating in Saturday's presidential aircraft trip.
In the latest link in the tension experienced with members of the press, the White House banned CNN from attending Saturday's Air Force One trip. CNN was scheduled to fly to a college football game in Tennessee but was left off the manifest.
Blocking Flight Participation
In the latest stage of the administration crisis with the media, the White House blocked CNN from participating in Saturday's Air Force One trip. CNN had planned to board the plane along with Donald Trump to cover a college football game.
Statements from Social Media
In a post on the Truth Social platform, the Republican president questioned why those who produce fake news should be allowed access to the White House, a sacred place. In his post, he drew attention to negative news and the CNN and MS Now organizations.
Press Pool Reaction
The extraordinary access cancellations prompted a swift reaction from the White House press pool. In protest, members of the press pool suspended video coverage of Trump and issued a joint statement.
Legal Process and Decisions
CNN, MS Now, and Politico took legal action, arguing that the ban violated the First Amendment. Although Department of Justice lawyers argued that the ban was related to national security, US District Judge Timothy Kelly ruled in favor of the news organizations.