A federal judge has ruled against the Associated Press (AP), rejecting its request for restored access to presidential events after the White House revoked its privileges. The legal battle arose after the AP was denied entry to Air Force One, the Oval Office and Mar-a-Lago, leading the news agency to sue White House officials for alleged First Amendment violations.
Judge Trevor McFadden declined to grant temporary relief, siding with the White House in determining that press access decisions remain at the president’s discretion. The lawsuit stemmed from President Donald Trump’s dissatisfaction with AP’s refusal to use the term “Gulf of America,” a designation his administration implemented through executive order.
TRUMP WINS IN COURT AGAINST THE AP.
THE RESULT: pic.twitter.com/qHMnl01eki
— john jackson (@pvtjokerus) February 25, 2025
The White House has defended its actions, emphasizing that AP still has access to press briefings and public reports. Officials stated that the lawsuit was an attempt by the AP to demand special treatment rather than uphold journalistic integrity. “The Associated Press continues to enjoy general media access to the White House press facilities,” the administration noted.
White House Epically Reminds the AP It’s the 'Gulf of America' After Pro-Trump Court Ruling https://t.co/6D2PQerMMK
— Fearless45 (@Fearless45Trump) February 25, 2025
McFadden echoed this argument, stating that AP had not demonstrated how losing direct access to Trump caused significant harm. He ruled that AP could continue reporting on the administration through pool reports and televised events. A full hearing on the matter is scheduled for March 20.
Trump has been vocal about his stance, confirming that AP’s exclusion will remain in place unless the outlet adjusts its editorial policy. “We’re going to keep them out until such time as they agree that it’s the Gulf of America,” Trump said.
