Trump Bans CNN, MS NOW, Politico; Staffers Denied White House Access

MS NOW and CNN staffers were turned away from the White House on Saturday morning, September 19, 2026, following President Trump's announcement of a ban on the outlets.

CBS News observed an MS NOW correspondent and cameraman being denied entry around 8 a.m. Saturday, with their hard passes revoked. MS NOW reporter Akayla Gardner stated her pass was disabled and a security guard said the matter was above him. CBS News also saw CNN reporter Betsy Klein and a cameraman leave without their badges.

A MS NOW photographer was denied access, while a producer was allowed entry. President Trump announced the ban on Friday, September 18, 2026, via a Truth Social post, stating CNN, MS NOW, and Politico were barred effective immediately. He accused the outlets of constant 'reporting' FAKE NEWS and reporting "FICTION and LIES," threatening similar action against other "Fake News Media Outlets."

Trump later said the ban was due to cumulative stories over two years and that he supports a free press but requires a fair and honest press. He also stated he does not have to allow them into the people's house. MS NOW declared its intent to take any and all steps necessary to defend their First Amendment rights, asserting the White House belongs to the American people.

CNN affirmed its mission to report on the U.S. government will continue regardless of any attempts to restrict physical access, citing a constitutional right to report without hindrance. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth fully supports the ban, claiming the outlets endangered the administration. ACLU attorney Arthur Spitzer called the ban unconstitutional, while attorney Alan Dershowitz saw no constitutional violation. It remains unclear if Politico journalists were denied access.