DOJ defends reporter ban, cites national security over Trump ballroom, Iran coverage

The U.S. Justice Department has defended President Donald Trump’s decision to bar CNN, MS NOW and Politico reporters from the White House, arguing their reporting raised national security concerns.

According to CNN, government lawyers said in a court filing that White House access is “a privilege, not a right,” and argued the president may restrict access to sensitive areas.

The administration cited coverage of the Iran war and Trump’s East Wing ballroom project, including reporting about a “top secret” bunker beneath the construction.

CNN, MS NOW and Politico have sued the administration, alleging the ban violates First Amendment and due process protections.

The outlets are seeking restoration of their journalists’ White House access as a federal judge considers the dispute.