DOJ Tells Judge Trump Put CNN 'On Notice' by Calling It 'Fake News'
The Justice Department argued the president can ban specific reporters and outlets at his discretion, citing Trump's old "fake news" label for CNN. Key arguments.
The DOJ argument
The Justice Department told a federal judge that Donald Trump put CNN "on notice" years ago when he called it "fake news," arguing the president can target specific reporters and outlets at his discretion, The Independent reported from the New York hearing.
The outlets' response
Lawyers for the banned outlets say the policy is retaliation for coverage the president dislikes, and that viewpoint-based exclusion from the White House violates the First Amendment.
Why the case matters
A ruling for the government could let any president exclude critical outlets. A ruling for the press could set limits on how the White House manages access.
What happens next
The judge is considering whether to block the ban while the case proceeds. Appeals are expected regardless of the outcome.
Frequently asked questions
Can the president ban a news outlet?
That is exactly what the court is deciding. The DOJ says yes; the outlets say no.
Which outlets are affected?
Reports describe three outlets, including CNN.
Sources
Independently written from reporting by the outlets below. Allegations are attributed and have not been independently verified by EngBen. Details may change.