US Justice Department investigates TV networks over White House pool coverage

The US Department of Justice has launched an inquiry into television networks' handling of White House pool coverage arrangements, according to reports emerging from Washington. The investigation stems from a recent incident in which several prominent news organisations were denied access to the White House.

Former President Donald Trump barred CNN, MSNBC and Politico from White House coverage last month, stating that the outlets had distributed what he characterised as 'fake news, fiction and lies.' The exclusion raised questions about media access protocols and the criteria used to determine which news organisations participate in the presidential press pool.

The Justice Department's examination focuses on whether the pool coverage arrangements comply with constitutional principles and established federal protocols governing press access to government institutions. Officials are reportedly reviewing the decision-making process and the standards applied in determining media credentials and participation rights.

The case has drawn attention from media advocacy groups and First Amendment lawyers, who argue that press access to government proceedings is fundamental to democratic accountability. The investigation's outcome could have significant implications for how future administrations manage media access and pool coverage arrangements at the White House.