Judge blocks Trump's ban on CNN, MS NOW and Politico's White House access for now

A federal judge halted President Trump's order barring CNN, MS NOW and Politico from the White House on Thursday morning, granting the news organizations temporary relief and ordering the restoration of their press credentials. U.S. District Judge Timothy Kelly ruled that the journalists should have prior notice and an opportunity to challenge the ban, which he deemed lacking due process.

The judge also expressed skepticism about the claim that the restrictions were motivated by national security concerns. The three news outlets had filed a lawsuit on Monday, arguing that the ban was unconstitutional retaliation for their unfavorable coverage of the administration. The Justice Department defended the ban, arguing it was necessary to uphold professionalism and protect classified information.

The judge's temporary restraining order will remain in place for 14 days while a longer-term decision is made. The Justice Department is expected to appeal the ruling, to which Trump has pledged to appeal to the appeals court if the decision goes in the journalists' favor.