Major U.S. News Outlets Reject New Pentagon Access Rules Over Press Freedom Concerns

Major U.S. News Outlets Reject New Pentagon Access Rules Over Press Freedom Concerns
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At least 30 major news organizations have declined to sign a new Pentagon access policy for journalists, citing potential threats to press freedom, Reuters reported. The policy requires reporters to acknowledge new restrictions that could see their Pentagon credentials revoked if they are deemed security risks or solicit certain types of information, including some unclassified material.

Outlets rejecting the policy include Reuters, the Associated Press, Bloomberg, The New York Times, The Washington Post, CNN, Fox News, and all major U.S. broadcast networks. They warned the new rules could limit transparency and hinder coverage of the U.S. military, which receives nearly $1 trillion in annual funding.

Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell defended the policy, saying it merely ensures journalists understand security expectations. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth called the requirements “common sense,” emphasizing the need to protect national security. President Donald Trump also backed the policy, claiming the press can be “disruptive” to world peace.

Media organizations and the Pentagon Press Association said the policy could undermine First Amendment protections by discouraging journalists from seeking important information. Legal experts warned it might make it easier to prosecute reporters under the Espionage Act.

While most outlets rejected the policy, conservative network One America News confirmed it had signed the document. The Pentagon has given reporters until Tuesday to comply or surrender their press badges. Despite revisions following media backlash, critics say the updated rules still pose a serious risk to independent reporting.