Dozens of journalists left the Pentagon on Wednesday rather than comply with new restrictions imposed by U.S. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, distancing them from covering American military affairs. The government labeled the rules as “common sense.”
Various news outlets rejected the regulations, which could lead to expulsion if journalists reported on unapproved information, classified or otherwise. At a 4 p.m. ET deadline, around 40 to 50 reporters left together, handing in their badges as a sign of solidarity.
Nancy Youssef, a Pentagon reporter for The Atlantic, expressed both sadness and pride in the press corps’ unity. Despite the uncertainty of the rules’ impact, news organizations affirmed their commitment to robust military coverage.
President Donald Trump voiced support for the new rules, citing the press as disruptive to world peace and dishonest. Hegseth, a former Fox News Channel host, has restricted information flow, limited media briefings, and banned unescorted access to parts of the Pentagon.
Journalists criticized the rules, viewing them as an attempt to control the narrative and limit independent reporting. Reporters like Heather Mongilio from USNI News vowed to persist in their coverage despite the challenges posed by the regulations.
The Pentagon Press Association, representing 56 news outlets with 101 members, condemned the rules. While most media organizations refused to sign, One America News Network (OANN) became the sole supporter, possibly aiming to secure better access to Trump administration officials.