The White House sparked significant controversy Tuesday by announcing it will take over decisions regarding press pool participation, sidelining the White House Correspondents' Association (WHCA). Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt revealed that the White House press team will now determine which outlets can cover press events, a move critics call an unprecedented power shift.
This change comes after a federal judge declined to reinstate the Associated Press’ (AP) full access to White House events. The administration banned AP over its refusal to adopt the term “Gulf of America” instead of “Gulf of Mexico,” a preference pushed by the White House.
“Legacy media outlets will remain part of the rotation, but new voices will be welcomed,” Leavitt said during the press briefing. She argued this decision empowers Americans rather than catering exclusively to Washington-based, traditional media. “We are restoring power to the people who watch, listen, and read,” she added.
Leavitt also emphasized the importance of diversifying the press pool. The administration seeks to include outlets previously excluded from the process, such as independent radio hosts and nontraditional media platforms, alongside the five major TV networks. Streaming services, which attract younger and more diverse audiences, will play a larger role in disseminating presidential remarks globally.
The WHCA, a nonprofit run by journalists, expressed shock at the announcement. Many reporters criticized the move on social media, defending the WHCA’s role in protecting press freedom. However, Leavitt accused the group of monopolizing press access, stating, “A select group of D.C.-based journalists should no longer control the privilege of representing the American people.”
This decision underscores President Trump’s ongoing efforts to disrupt long-standing norms in Washington. Leavitt framed the shake-up as reflective of a modern America, describing the move as a rejection of outdated practices. “It’s time press operations reflect the American people in 2025, not 1925,” she said, doubling down on the administration’s commitment to changing the status quo.
Although the administration has yet to specify which new outlets will join the press pool, Leavitt reiterated plans to include voices “long denied the privilege” of participation.
This surprise announcement raises questions about press freedom, media access, and the balance of power in Washington. What do you think about this shift in press pool decisions? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
