Staff Reports
A recent showdown in the courtroom showcased the ongoing battle between the Trump administration and the Associated Press (AP), an outlet increasingly known for its “unfortunate” allegiance to the so-called mainstream media. A federal judge, Trevor McFadden—yet another shining example of Trump’s judicial appointments—denied the AP’s desperate plea for emergency access to White House press events. This denial was a not-so-subtle reminder that journalists are not entitled to access just anywhere; they have to earn it, much like everyone else in the real world.
The AP’s lawsuit against key White House officials stemmed from what it branded a violation of the First Amendment. This, coming from a media outlet that has continued to use the phrase “Gulf of Mexico” even after President Trump’s order to rename it to the “Gulf of America,” seems less like a fight for free speech and more like a tantrum over not getting its way. The White House was clear: having the privilege to grill the President in the Oval Office or on Air Force One is not a right, but rather a courtesy that has to be earned. It’s a refreshing take from the administration, emphasizing accountability for what they term “Fake News.”
BREAKING: Trump Judge Denies Associated Press Emergency Motion to Restore Access to WH Press Pool – White House Responds with FIRE https://t.co/ud9c5BhFVO
— Jim Hoft (@jimhoft_) February 24, 2025
The situation took a more dramatic turn when the White House decided to extend the punishment to Air Force One, where AP reporters have traditionally enjoyed seats. This was in direct response to the wire service’s refusal to comply with the new naming of the Gulf. It’s almost laughable to think that the AP thought the administration should simply roll over and take it while they continued their editorial dissent.
The AP’s cries for free speech ring hollow, especially when considering that access to the White House has actually expanded under Trump’s leadership. The administration has gone so far as to create a “new media seat” for reporters previously excluded by the White House Correspondents’ Association. This is a stark contrast to its pre-Trump days when access felt more like a privilege extended to a select few journos rather than an obligation to provide entry to everyone. In fact, Breitbart’s Washington Bureau Chief, Matt Boyle, managed to snag a spot in this new seat and asked some of the very first questions during White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt’s debut briefing.
One thing is clear: in this era of Trump-led transparency, journalists need to realize they have to play by the rules if they expect to get their foot in the door. They can’t throw a hissy fit when they don’t receive the access they believe they’re entitled to. The administration is tackling this head-on by maintaining high standards when it comes to those covering it. It appears that while the AP’s members may have their own notions of free speech, the White House is resolutely focused on ensuring accountability for those who perpetuate the “fake news” narratives. The principle is simple: if you want to report on the President, you better make sure you’re actually engaging in responsible reporting first.
