Several prominent news organizations, including the New York Times, The Associated Press, and Newsmax, have announced their refusal to sign a U.S. Defence Department document outlining new press regulations. This decision is likely to result in the Trump administration removing their reporters from the Pentagon. The media outlets argue that the policy poses a threat to their First Amendment-protected news gathering practices. The Washington Post, The Atlantic, and Reuters have also joined the group in rejecting the document.
In a public statement, Reuters emphasized its commitment to accurate and independent journalism, citing a belief in the press freedoms guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution. The agency expressed concerns that the Pentagon’s new restrictions undermine these core values. U.S. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth reacted by sharing the Times’ statement on social media and imposing a deadline for reporters to acknowledge the policy or face eviction from the Pentagon premises.
The new rules restrict journalist access to certain areas of the Pentagon without an escort and grant Hegseth the authority to revoke press credentials for inquiring about unauthorized information within the Defence Department. Newsmax, known for its pro-Trump stance, criticized the regulations as unnecessary and burdensome, calling for a review of the policy by the Pentagon.
Chief Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell defended the rules as establishing sensible media protocols, emphasizing that reporters are merely required to acknowledge the policy, not necessarily agree to it. Journalists have pushed back against assertions that signing the document implies compromising national security, with experts stating that reporters do not access classified areas or report sensitive information that could endanger individuals.
The Pentagon Press Association underscored the public’s right to be informed about government and military activities, criticizing the requirement for reporters to affirm vague and potentially unconstitutional policies as a precondition for reporting from Pentagon facilities. The association highlighted the significant taxpayer investment in the military and emphasized the importance of transparency in government operations.
President Trump’s administration has faced criticism for pressuring news organizations through legal disputes and funding cuts. The administration has settled lawsuits with ABC News and CBS News, while also initiating legal action against outlets like the New York Times and the Wall Street Journal. Additionally, efforts to reduce funding for government-run services like the Voice of America and Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty have raised concerns about media freedom.