White House restores access to journalists after court ruling

The United States government restored White House access for journalists from CNN, MS NOW, and Politico following a significant legal confrontation. On September 18, 2026, President Donald Trump imposed a ban on these outlets, citing national security concerns and accusing them of publishing falsehoods and sensitive information, including details regarding Iranian conflict reporting and infrastructure projects. The affected media outlets subsequently filed a legal challenge against the administration.

On September 24, 2026, federal judge Timothy Kelly ruled that the ban was likely unconstitutional and ordered the immediate restoration of press credentials for all three organizations. Although there was an initial delay and reports of continued obstruction at the entrance gates during the hours following the ruling, the White House officially complied with the judge's order. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed the restoration of access, and by September 25, journalists from the affected networks had resumed covering presidential events, including a joint appearance with Chinese President Xi Jinping at the National Archives.