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TV Networks Resume Covering White House as Press Access Fight Continues
Five major networks resumed pool coverage after a judge ordered the White House to restore access to CNN, MS NOW and Politico.
On Friday, U.S. television networks resumed pool coverage of President Donald Trump's events, providing the first live access for Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit after a federal judge ordered the administration to restore access for CNN, MS NOW, and Politico.
Trump banned the three outlets last week citing coverage he alleged was false, prompting ABC, CBS, CNN, Fox News, and NBC to suspend pool coverage in solidarity while the dispute remained unresolved.
A federal judge deemed the ban likely unconstitutional Thursday, ordering immediate restoration of access. The legal challenge, supported by more than four dozen news organizations, asserts the administration violated First Amendment protections.
CNN handled Friday's pool assignment at the National Archives, where Trump and Xi viewed historical documents. Trump told reporters, "We appreciate the fair coverage. We appreciate it," despite earlier social media criticism of the networks.
While access is restored, the court has not resolved the primary legal challenge. News organizations have until September 28 to request a permanent injunction, though the administration may continue pursuing its case in federal court.