WASHINGTON — The White House announced an updated press-freedom policy Friday clarifying that journalists remain completely free to cover the president, although access may vary depending on whether the coverage causes the president to enjoy being covered.
The revised policy follows a federal court fight over access for major news organizations whose reporting the administration dislikes. Officials said the dispute has revealed a widespread misunderstanding of the First Amendment.
“Freedom of the press does not mean freedom from seating arrangements,” explained a fictional senior adviser from the Office of Constructive Questions. “You are free to publish whatever you want. We are free to decide whether you publish it from the driveway.”
Under the new framework, reporters will be sorted into three categories: Supportive, Potentially Teachable, and Why Are You Like This? Placement will determine proximity to microphones, briefings and indoor plumbing.
The administration emphasized that no viewpoint discrimination is involved. Access decisions will instead be based on neutral factors such as tone, headline shape, adjective selection and whether the president described the outlet as “disgraceful” within the last 72 hours.
A laminated guide distributed to reporters offers examples of acceptable questions, including “How successful was the success?” and “Would you say this was the greatest version of what just happened?”
Questions beginning with “Why,” “How much,” “Who authorized,” or “Is that legal” require advance review.
Legal experts noted that courts have historically taken a dim view of government retaliation based on viewpoint. Administration officials responded that the courts are welcome to submit that opinion through the proper media credentialing portal.
The new rules take effect immediately and will remain in force until replaced by a judge.
