(WASHINGTON)–PEN America today condemned the latest press restrictions imposed by the Defense Department, days after a federal judge ruled in favor of The New York Times in determining that the Pentagon’s restrictions on news outlets violated the First Amendment.
“The Defense Department’s calculated maneuvering to evade a federal court order shows just how far Pentagon leaders are willing to go to undermine independent reporting and flout the law,” said Tim Richardson, journalism and disinformation program director at PEN America. “These new restrictions are not about genuine security concerns but instead are part of the administration’s multi-pronged campaign to sideline credible reporting, even during a time of war. The Defense Department must immediately comply with the court’s order and restore journalists’ access.”
The latest restrictions include closing the office space long used by journalists and moving reporters to an “annex” outside the building, requiring escorts for access to the main Pentagon building.
About PEN America
PEN America stands at the intersection of literature and human rights to protect free expression in the United States and worldwide. We champion the freedom to write, recognizing the power of the word to transform the world. Our mission is to unite writers and their allies to celebrate creative expression and defend the liberties that make it possible. Learn more at pen.org.
Contact: Suzanne Trimel, [email protected], 201-247-5057