On March 5, 2024, President Donald Trump signed an executive order barring CNN, MS NOW and Politico from the White House. The ban follows a series of reports Trump called 'fake news'.
Trump said the outlets had repeatedly published stories he claimed were 'fiction and lies' about his administration. He noted the cumulative effect of these reports over the last five years.
CNN released a statement calling the ban an illegal assault on the First Amendment. The network pledged to continue reporting from other venues, including its online platforms and radio.
White House spokesperson Kevin McCarthy said the ban is a security measure. He added that the decision is provisional and that staff will be allowed back once security protocols are satisfied.
Maria Patel, a senior CNN correspondent, was escorted away from the lobby without explanation. She said the experience felt 'threatening' and highlighted the tension between the press and the executive.