The Society of Professional Journalists and Reporters Without Borders quickly condemned the social media announcementthat CNN, NS NOW and Politico were being banned from the White House.
SPJ
The Society of Professional Journalists strongly objects to President Donald Trump’s announcement barring CNN, MS NOW and Politico from the White House because of their coverage. The president said today that the ban was effective immediately and accused the outlets of reporting “fake news,” while also suggesting additional news organizations would be excluded.
Government officials do not get to decide which legitimate news organizations deserve access based on whether they approve of their reporting. A free press must be able to question those in power, report critically on government actions and serve the public without fear that access will be revoked as punishment for unfavorable coverage.
Reporters Without Borders
“We are appalled that Trump has said he will ban three news organizations from the White House because of coverage he doesn’t like. The president is once again spewing lies about ‘fake news’ to try to control who covers him and where. Reporting from the White House is crucial to providing critical information to Americans about their government. Press access is not a privilege for journalists. It’s a right to ensure the American people can be independently informed. RSF is exploring every legal avenue to counter the Trump administration if it follows through on this egregious restriction.”
Clayton Weimers
Executive Director, RSF North America
Full SPJ statement: