Major U.S. media outlets are refusing to sign the Pentagon’s new press access rules, which they say violate the First Amendment and restrict independent reporting.
The Pentagon, led by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, has ordered journalists to sign a pledge barring them from using any unauthorized material — even if unclassified — or risk losing access to the building.
Media outlets reject new Pentagon rules citing press freedom
— WION (@WIONews) October 14, 2025
Newsman and Fox News also known as the 'MAGA' outlets have also rejected the new rules@Mohammed11Saleh brings you this report pic.twitter.com/lCZxX6WcGL
The Pentagon Press Association said the policy “gags Pentagon employees” and threatens retaliation against reporters seeking unapproved information.
Outlets including CNN, Reuters, The Associated Press, The New York Times, and Newsmax have declined to sign.
Hegseth, a former Fox News host, has dismissed the criticism, saying the press “no longer roams free.”
News organizations are considering legal action, arguing the new policy undermines press freedom and transparency.
Critics say the rules are part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to restrict independent military coverage.
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TIPP Staff
