Overview

• A DHS spokesperson confirmed that Kitchen was refused entry after indicating he had not used drugs on his ESTA application despite admitting past cannabis use.
• Kitchen alleges that U.S. border agents explicitly questioned him about his reporting on pro-Palestinian protests and his views on the Gaza conflict.
• PEN America condemned the case as evidence of a disturbing pattern of viewpoint-based screening that undermines democratic principles.
• The Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade provided consular support to Kitchen and advises that U.S. officials may inspect electronic devices and deny entry to travelers who refuse.
• Some writers and academics report using burner phones or removing social media apps before U.S. travel to avoid electronic searches.