Judge Denies AP’s Attempt To Regain Exclusive White House Access

A federal judge ruled against the Associated Press (AP) in its attempt to regain exclusive access to presidential events, rejecting claims that the White House violated the outlet’s First Amendment rights. The AP had sued the Trump administration after its reporters were denied entry to the Oval Office, Air Force One and Mar-a-Lago.

Judge Trevor McFadden determined that the White House is not obligated to provide special access to any particular media outlet. The ruling stated that AP’s ability to report on the administration remains intact, as it still has access to press briefings and can rely on pool reports.

The dispute originated when AP refused to use “Gulf of America” in place of “Gulf of Mexico,” a name change implemented by President Donald Trump through executive order. The White House responded by revoking AP’s preferential access, with Trump making it clear that the ban would continue unless the outlet adopted the new terminology.

In its legal filing, the administration argued that AP’s removal from exclusive events was not an attack on press freedom but a discretionary decision made by the president. The White House noted that previous administrations have granted or denied special media privileges without legal consequences.

McFadden sided with the White House, stating that AP had failed to show “irreparable harm” from losing direct access to the president. He scheduled another hearing for March 20, when AP’s request for a preliminary injunction will be considered.

Trump’s executive order also directed federal agencies to recognize the name change, with February 9 designated as “Gulf of America Day.” Some media outlets, including Fox News, have adopted the new designation, while others continue to use the original name.

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