By Paul Joseph
US President Donald Trump has announced the immediate exclusion of CNN, MS NOW and Politico from the White House, escalating his ongoing confrontation with sections of the American media.
Trump made the announcement in a lengthy post on Truth Social on Friday, accusing the three outlets of repeatedly publishing or reporting what he described as “fiction or lies” about his administration.
The president did not identify specific reports or stories that prompted the decision, while the precise scope of the proposed ban remained unclear.
It was also uncertain whether the measure would prevent journalists from the three organisations from entering the White House grounds or restrict their access to particular areas and presidential events.
Despite the announcement, reporters from CNN and Politico were still present on the White House grounds shortly afterwards.
Speaking to reporters in the Oval Office, Trump said there was “no reason” for the announcement beyond what he described as a cumulative history of coverage over several years.
He also indicated that other media organisations could face similar action, although he did not identify them.
The announcement adds to a series of disputes between Trump and the White House press corps since he returned to office in January 2025.
In February 2025, the White House announced that it would take control of the press pool providing access to the president, ending a long-standing arrangement under which the White House Correspondents’ Association had managed access.
The administration also restricted access for Associated Press journalists and photographers to locations such as the Oval Office and Air Force One after the news organisation continued using the term “Gulf of Mexico” rather than “Gulf of America.”
The Associated Press subsequently filed a lawsuit, which remains ongoing.
Trump has frequently clashed with journalists during presidential engagements and has repeatedly criticised media organisations whose reporting he disputes.
During his first term, the White House also revoked the press credentials of CNN correspondent Jim Acosta. CNN challenged the decision in court, after which his credentials were restored.
Trump has also pursued legal action against several US and international media organisations, including The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times and the BBC.
The latest announcement is expected to face scrutiny from news organisations and press-freedom groups, particularly over the scope and legal basis of any restrictions.
The BBC reported that it had contacted the White House for comment on Trump’s announcement.
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