Tue Feb 25 18:40:00 UTC 2025: **Federal Judge Temporarily Rejects AP’s Bid to Regain White House Access**
WASHINGTON (AP) — A federal judge on Monday declined to immediately reinstate The Associated Press’s access to White House events, ruling that the news organization hadn’t proven irreparable harm. However, Judge Trevor N. McFadden, a Trump appointee, strongly suggested the White House reconsider its two-week-old ban, stating that existing case law heavily favors the AP.
The White House barred the AP after the news agency refused to exclusively use President Trump’s newly decreed name for the Gulf of Mexico – “Gulf of America” – instead continuing to use the internationally recognized term, “Gulf of Mexico,” while also noting Trump’s renaming. The judge hinted that this action constituted viewpoint discrimination.
While the judge denied the AP’s request for an immediate restraining order, he scheduled a further hearing for March 20th. Until then, the White House remains free to exclude AP journalists from events, including briefings and access to the Oval Office.
The White House has defended its actions, stating that access to presidential events is a privilege, not a right, and that the AP’s longstanding presence in the White House press pool doesn’t guarantee permanent access. Two monitors displaying “Gulf of America” and “Victory” were prominently displayed in the James Brady Press Briefing Room during the hearing.
The AP, which filed suit against the White House, maintains that the ban is a violation of the First Amendment, a targeted attack on press freedom. Dozens of news organizations, including some known for their support of President Trump, have publicly urged the White House to reverse its decision. The AP’s spokesperson stated their commitment to fighting for press freedom and the public’s right to information.
This case echoes a previous dispute during Trump’s first term, when CNN reporter Jim Acosta had his White House credentials revoked, a decision later overturned by a federal judge. The current legal battle is expected to continue, with the March 20th hearing potentially deciding the fate of the AP’s White House access.
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