Trump restricts press freedom: No access for agencies on Air Force One!

Trump restricts press freedom: No access for agencies on Air Force One!

On May 13, 2025, a decision by the Trump administration caused a stir among journalists. The White House has severely restricted access to Air Force One for correspondents from news outlets including the Associated Press (AP), Bloomberg and Reuters during a planned Middle East trip by the president. This measure not only impacts reporting, but is also seen as a worrying restriction on press freedom. Tagesschau reports that This is the first time in Press Corps history that no news agency reporters will be on board.

The White House Correspondents' Association (WHCA) has strongly criticized the decision, describing it as a serious threat to press relations. Access to the presidential plane is usually a central place for communication between the president and members of the press. The WHCA expressed deep concern about these new regulations, which may be interpreted as retaliation for the agencies' editorial decisions. AP notes that These agencies' reports are essential because they are quickly distributed to thousands of newsrooms and millions of readers worldwide.

Obstruction of press reporting

The changes imposed by the Trump administration have significantly disrupted the pool solution, under which a select group of journalists accompany the president. This media representation is important to ensure equal coverage of the president's activities. News outlets used to have guaranteed access, but now they have to compete with print media for spots on Air Force One and other events in the Oval Office.

Further developments related to this decision show that AP was banned from events in the Oval Office despite a court order prohibiting it. The problems began after AP refused to rename the Gulf of Mexico the “Gulf of America,” which was requested under an executive order from Trump.

Contrary treatment of other media

Another worrying development is the favoritism given to some media groups. Under the new administration, right-wing media, influencers, bloggers and podcasters will have privileged access to the White House. Trump's press secretary Karoline Leavitt has taken control of the pool's staffing, which was previously regulated by the WHCA. These changes are seen as a step backwards for press freedom and a threat to transparency in reporting on the presidency.

The current situation highlights the challenges faced by journalists and highlights the importance of access to information in a democratic society. If the White House continues to restrict access to journalists, it could severely impact information opportunities for the American people and create a disparity in coverage of the president's activities.