US judge blocks Trump’s ban, restores White House access for CNN, MS Now, Politico

A federal judge has extended access for journalists from CNN, MS NOW, and Politico to the White House, ruling that President Donald Trump likely violated the law by attempting to ban them. The decision, issued by US District Judge Timothy Kelly on Tuesday, comes in a legal dispute over press freedom. CNN, MS NOW, and Politico journalists accused Trump of unconstitutional retaliation for unfavorable coverage.

The judge's order last month granted temporary access to the journalists, and a preliminary injunction was issued on Tuesday to remain in effect until a final judgment is made in the lawsuit. Trump's campaign against the media has been unprecedented, with past presidents battling the press but Trump's efforts being more extreme.

He has denied access to major news organizations, attacked journalists personally, and filed lawsuits against them. Trump's ban, announced in September, was allegedly justified on national security grounds. The news organizations argue the ban was unlawful retaliation for their coverage and violate their First Amendment rights and due process rights.

The White House reinstated the journalists' access on September 24 after the judge declared the ban likely violated their constitutional rights. The judge also questioned the Justice Department's national security arguments, noting Trump had cited negative coverage as the reason for the ban. The Justice Department maintains the outlets endangered national security by publishing classified information.

The legal battle is ongoing just weeks before the November 3 US midterm elections, with Trump's job approval ratings at record lows due to concerns like inflation and the Iran war.