A wide range of American news outlets is pushing back against new Pentagon rules for press access, creating a standoff over journalists’ rights and how openly the government operates. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth introduced the policy last month, and it asks reporters to agree they won’t seek out “unauthorized” information—with the threat of losing their credentials if they break the rules, according to The Washington Post.
Major names in American News Outlets are saying ‘NO’. The Associated Press reported that The New York Times, Reuters, the Post, the Associated Press, NPR, The Atlantic, and Newsmax are among outlets that say they will not sign, while One America News said it will comply, according to Associated Press.
Matt Murray, Executive Editor of The Washington Post, said the policy undermines the constitutional right to a free press.
“The proposed restrictions undercut First Amendment protections by placing unnecessary constraints on gathering and publishing information,” Murray stated. He added that the newspaper would continue to “vigorously and fairly report on the policies and positions of the Pentagon and officials across the government.”
The Pentagon tried to soften the blow after reporters objected in September. It sent around an updated memo that dropped language requiring journalists to say they “agree” with the policy. But the revised version still threatens to yank credentials from reporters who “solicit” information that hasn’t been approved. Experts who advocate for press freedom worry that vague wording could apply to everyday journalism—like calling sources for tips or reaching out to officials, according to Poynter.
News editors and journalism advocacy groups argue the rules will suppress vital reporting on a military with a budget nearing $1 trillion, and could turn normal journalism into a punishable offense. The Pentagon Press Association warned the revision “conveys an unprecedented message of intimidation” and would curtail access that Pentagon reporters have had for decades, according to the Post and AP.
Hegseth fired back at critics on social media. He posted a list on X titled “Press credentialing FOR DUMMIES” that read in part: “Press no longer roams free” and “Credentialed press no longer permitted to solicit criminal acts.” He also amplified a statement from the Times with a waving-hand emoji, according to Pete Hegseth.
News organizations were given an ultimatum: sign by Tuesday or hand over their Pentagon press badges by Wednesday. Multiple outlets have made it clear they’re willing to give up their credentials rather than accept terms they believe trample on the First Amendment, according to the AP and the Post.
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