Trump's White House Battles for Control Over Press Access in Court
Source: news.source.rappler
The Trump administration is seeking judicial support to maintain control over White House press access, particularly after limiting the Associated Press's (AP) access due to its refusal to adopt the government's preferred name for the Gulf of Mexico. The administration argues that the president has broad authority to decide media access, while the AP claims the restrictions retaliate against its coverage choices, potentially violating free speech protections. The case is being reviewed by a federal appeals court, highlighting tensions between the White House and the media.
Key Points
The Trump administration is arguing in court for the right to control White House press access.
The White House limited AP's access after the agency refused to use the name 'Gulf of America' instead of 'Gulf of Mexico'.
Justice Department lawyer Eric McArthur claims the president has broad authority over media access.
AP lawyers argue that the restrictions are retaliatory and violate free speech protections.
The case involves a federal appeals court and has implications for press freedom and media relations with the White House.
The White House has been accused of defying a court order by continuing to limit access to AP and other news wires.
The AP's influential stylebook and its refusal to change established geographical names are central to the dispute.
