White House Row: Trump Labels News By CNN, Other US Media As ‘Threat’ To National Security | Sahara Reporters
Trump made the remarks in a statement defending his decision to restrict access to the three media outlets.
The United States President, Donald Trump, has described some American media organisations as a “threat” to national security as CNN, MS NOW and Politico prepare to challenge his decision to bar them from the White House.
Trump made the remarks in a statement defending his decision to restrict access to the three media outlets.
He said the move was not an attack on press freedom but a response to what he described as “fake news.”
“The White House is not instituting an assault on the Free Press, something which I cherish. It is instituting an assault on the FAKE NEWS, something that has grown like Cancer in our beloved United States of America.
“It is corrupt, purposeful, pervasive, fully coordinated, and totally out of control. It is a threat to our National Security, and must be stopped, NOW!”
The remarks were attributed to Trump in a graphic circulated by Al Jazeera.
The three media organisations have challenged Trump’s decision, arguing that the restrictions raise First Amendment concerns.
The First Amendment to the US Constitution protects freedom of speech and freedom of the press, and restrictions on journalists’ access to government officials and institutions can raise constitutional questions.
Trump has repeatedly criticised major US news organisations during his presidency, accusing some outlets of publishing what he considers false or misleading reports about his administration.
The latest dispute follows Trump’s announcement on Friday that CNN, MS NOW and Politico would be barred from the White House.
CNN said its White House team would continue its work despite the restrictions.
The move is expected to face legal scrutiny as the affected media organisations prepare to challenge it in court.