The Pentagon now requires journalists to pledge not to publish unauthorized information, drawing sharp criticism from lawmakers and press advocates.
Journalists covering the Pentagon must now sign a pledge not to publish information that has not been formally cleared for release, according to a new 17-page Defense Department memo. The directive, issued under Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, details press access rules and warns that credentials could be revoked if reporters use unauthorized material. The Pentagon, which President Trump has also referred to as the “Department of War,” said, “DoW remains committed to transparency to promote accountability and public trust. However, DoW information must be approved for public release by an appropriate authorizing official before it is released, even if it is unclassified.”
Sen. Jack Reed, the top Democrat on the Senate Armed Services Committee, called the move “an affront to free speech and freedom of the press,” accusing the administration of trying to stifle journalism. National Press Club president Mike Balsamo added, “This is a direct assault on independent journalism … that should alarm every American.”
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