White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed on Wednesday, February 12, that the Associated Press (AP) was barred from covering key events with President Donald Trump the previous day.
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The decision came after AP refused to conform to the president’s executive order renaming the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America, a move that has sparked widespread controversy.
Leavitt addressed questions about whether the action was "retaliatory" in nature, asserting that the administration was merely holding news outlets accountable for "spreading lies." She reiterated that the body of water, according to the U.S. administration, should be referred to as the Gulf of America, following Trump's executive order and the U.S. Department of the Interior's official designation. She also pointed out that major tech companies like Apple and Google, along with some other media outlets, had already adopted the new name.
The AP, however, stood firm in its editorial decision, continuing to use the Gulf of Mexico in line with its longstanding style guide, which aims for consistency and clarity for global audiences. AP Executive Editor Julie Pace expressed concern, condemning the White House's actions as a violation of the First Amendment, which protects press freedom. She emphasized that limiting access to reporters based on editorial content obstructs independent journalism and impedes the public's right to information.
This altercation is the latest in a growing tension between the Trump administration and media organizations, which critics argue is part of an ongoing effort to stifle critical reporting. The White House Correspondents' Association and the National Press Club both condemned the action, calling it a direct assault on press freedom.
Leavitt, during a press briefing, defended the administration's actions, stating that attending White House events is a "privilege" and not a guaranteed right. She reiterated that the decision to bar AP reporters was in response to their refusal to align with the administration’s preferred language and narrative.
The AP's stance has sparked global discussions about media independence and the increasing pressure from political entities on news organizations. This conflict raises concerns about the potential for government interference in editorial decisions and the broader implications for the freedom of the press.
As the situation unfolds, the Associated Press has not responded to Leavitt’s remarks, but the ongoing battle highlights the critical need for a free press, unimpeded by political influence, to ensure that the public remains well-informed.