US TV networks halt Trump coverage after White House bans CNN

On Monday, the top US television networks - CNN, MSNBC, and Politico - halted their coverage of President Donald Trump's activities after the White House barred them from the premises. This unprecedented boycott came after Trump barred the three outlets from the White House on Friday, as part of his ongoing feud with the media. The ban resulted in the absence of live television coverage during key events, such as the inauguration of the new White House helipad and Trump's visit to the United Nations General Assembly.

The five major US broadcasters - ABC, CBS, CNN, Fox, and NBC - jointly announced their decision to stop pool coverage of the White House in solidarity with CNN. The networks emphasized the public's right to receive accurate, independent information about the government, and stated that no administration should restrict a news organization based on its reporting.

The First Amendment of the US Constitution, which protects the freedom of the press, was cited as a reason for the lawsuit filed by CNN, MSNBC, and Politico. The White House's decision to revoke press passes and confiscate those of the banned outlets further escalated the conflict. Trump dismissed the ban as a response to past criticisms and warned other media outlets that they could face similar restrictions in the future.