US Justice Department says Trump can bar journalists from White House

The Justice Department's stance represents a significant development in the ongoing tension between the Trump administration and major news organizations. CNN, MSNBC and Politico challenged the access restrictions in court, arguing that barring news outlets from White House grounds violates press freedom and constitutional protections.

The three news organizations contended that denying them access to presidential facilities impedes their ability to report on government activities and hold the administration accountable. They sought immediate relief through the courts to restore their credentials and access to White House briefings and events.

The Justice Department's position suggests the administration has broad discretion in managing press access to government premises. Legal experts have raised concerns about the precedent such actions could set for press freedom in the United States, particularly regarding a president's ability to selectively punish media organizations deemed unfavorable.

The dispute underscores deepening friction between the Trump administration and sections of the American media, with the president frequently criticizing news coverage as inaccurate or misleading. The outcome of the court challenge may have implications for how future administrations manage journalist access to the White House and other government facilities.