White House Restructures Presidential Press Pool, Ending Correspondents' Association Role

The Trump administration's decision to select its own press pool has sparked concerns over press freedom and transparency.

The White House announced it will now determine the makeup of the press pool covering the president, replacing the long-standing role of the White House Correspondents' Association (WHCA).
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated the move aims to increase inclusivity, arguing that no single group of journalists should monopolize press access.
The Associated Press, recently barred from covering certain presidential events, has filed a lawsuit challenging the administration's decision, citing First Amendment concerns.
Critics, including WHCA and media analysts, warn the change undermines press independence and could lead to selective access based on favoritism.
The administration has faced additional scrutiny for limiting press access at the Pentagon, where traditional media outlets have been excluded from briefings and spaces.