Wed Feb 12 05:18:58 UTC 2025: ## White House Bars AP Reporter from Trump Event Over “Gulf of America” Dispute
**Washington, D.C.** – The White House on Tuesday barred an Associated Press (AP) reporter from covering an event featuring President Donald Trump and Elon Musk, sparking outrage from the news agency and press advocacy groups. The AP alleges the ban is retaliation for its refusal to adopt Trump’s newly coined term, “Gulf of America,” for the Gulf of Mexico.
The AP, a permanent member of the White House press pool, issued a statement condemning the action as a blatant violation of the First Amendment and a severe impediment to the public’s access to independent news. Their style guide, which serves as a standard for many news organizations, maintains the long-established name, “Gulf of Mexico,” while acknowledging Trump’s preferred term.
The White House Correspondents’ Association (WHCA) echoed the AP’s concerns, calling on the White House to immediately reverse its decision. WHCA President Eugene Daniels stated that the administration cannot dictate news coverage and should not penalize journalists for editorial decisions.
This incident recalls past instances where the Trump administration targeted media outlets critical of the president. Previous attempts to restrict press access faced legal challenges and were ultimately unsuccessful. The current ban raises fresh concerns about press freedom and the administration’s relationship with the media. The AP’s statement strongly asserts their commitment to independent journalism and their right to report without political interference.
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