Judge Rejects Hegseth’s Second Attempt to Restrict Reporters at Pentagon
The New York Times • • nation
Key Points:
- A federal judge, Paul Friedman, ruled the Pentagon's new restrictions on journalists covering the military complex unconstitutional, rejecting Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s efforts to control media access.
- The Pentagon's revised policy barred journalists from seeking confidential information from government sources, a provision Judge Friedman found problematic.
- Judge Friedman noted the Pentagon failed to reinstate press passes for several New York Times reporters, marking the second time he struck down parts of the Pentagon’s press policy.
- Since taking office, Hegseth has taken an adversarial approach toward the press, limiting reporters’ access to the Pentagon, including closing their on-site workspace and restricting unescorted movement.
- The Pentagon spokesperson stated the department disagrees with the ruling and plans to appeal, emphasizing a commitment to press access while ensuring security.
