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By Joshua Sammons
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President Donald Trump found himself at odds with sections of the media once again after he announced a ban on CNN, MS NOW and Politico reporters entering the White House, accusing the outlets of publishing "FICTION and LIES."
A federal judge has since temporarily ordered the reporters’ press credentials restored while the outlets’ lawsuit proceeds.
The administration's move prompted strong reactions from Newsweek readers, with commenters divided over its implications for press freedom.
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One Newsweek reader called it "another step towards authoritarianism," while another argued: "These outlets dish out judgment around the clock; they can take some themselves."
The dispute came days before the White House launched its own round-the-clock video stream, dubbed "Trump TV: The Essentials Station," which the White House promoted as a way to watch the administration's "biggest moments all in one place."
Here’s what Newsweek readers had to say:
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Readers Weigh in on Trump’s Media Ban
Original Article: Trump Says CNN, MS NOW, Politico Barred From White House Access
What To Know: Trump announced the ban on September 18. Reporters for the three outlets were subsequently denied entry and had their White House press credentials deactivated.
Reader Comment: "Another step towards authoritarianism—he just increased the credibility of those outlets. There is nothing more effective for me, than telling me I can't do something, that's normally what I then do—I think most Americans are like this. So, Trump doesn't want you to listen to those outlets—what are you going do America?" enzo_trent_is_being_silenced
Why It Stood Out: This commenter argues that restricting media access could ultimately increase public interest in their reporting, while framing the move as part of a broader concern about press freedom.
Original Article: Judge Temporarily Blocks Trump’s White House Media Ban
What To Know: On September 24, a federal judge issued a 14-day temporary restraining order requiring White House officials to restore the affected reporters’ press credentials. The judge found the outlets were likely to succeed on their due-process claim.
Reader Comment: "CNN, MS NOW and Politico need to get the over themselves. Their self-appointed status as democracy’s guardians does not place them above criticism. Good on Trump for confronting their staggering entitlement and fighting this in court. Set clear rules and enforce them consistently.
"These outlets dish out judgment around the clock; they can take some themselves. Earn trust, defend your reporting and quit the martyr routine. America has bigger concerns than your bruised newsroom egos." Truth Republic
Why It Stood Out: This commenter takes an opposing view, arguing the news outlets should be subject to criticism and that Trump was justified in his decision.
Reader Comment: "It never stood a chance. Trump loses again. Fight it he may but he’ll lose it again. Was a farce in the first place. The First Amendment is for all Americans whether those in power at the time, like it or not. It’s not for them to decide who has access to the WH." dave68314
Why It Stood Out: This commenter predicts the ban will fail and invokes the First Amendment. The September 24 order was temporary and rested on due-process grounds, so that wider legal question has not been resolved.
Readers react to the Launch of Trump TV
Original Article: White House Launches Trump TV Amid Media Ban: What We Know
What To Know: The White House launched a round-the-clock stream of administration video on September 21, days after Trump announced the access ban.
Reader Comment: "What a marvelous way to showcase one of the most remarkable men of the 21st century! I love classic movies. This will be bigger than Turner Classic Movies. Looking forward to seeing the Trump Biden debate again. I would gladly give up a steak dinner at Ruth Chris to watch the dems at CNN and the other pro-dem networks announce the election results of the last Presidential election." Music Intermission
Why It Stood Out: This reader shows their support for the launch of Trump TV, and says they would prefer watching it to coverage from networks they regard as hostile to the president.
Reader Comment: "Why would any truly patriotic American want to watch state-controlled media? That's how things run in countries like North Korea, Russia, China, and Iran. An authoritarian dictatorship has no place in the USA." Still Reply
Why It Stood Out: Taking a different approach, this commenter characterizes the White House stream as state-controlled media and raises concerns about government-produced coverage.
Reader Comment: "Faced with an absence of TV coverage, the White House directed followers to its own app, where Trump’s appearances are streamed live, rebranding its feed as Trump TV, a channel that will play the "administration’s biggest moments," similar to state-run television in nations such as China or North Korea!!!!" Trickster
Why It Stood Out: This reader had a similar reaction, questioning the White House creating and promoting its own media content.
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