(WASHINGTON) — PEN America today condemned the White House’s decision to restrict the White House press corps from the press secretary’s office and the “Upper Press” office space, citing security concerns. The decision comes days after the Pentagon added newsgathering restrictions on journalists – disingenuously citing security concerns – that forced out longtime respected Pentagon reporters who refused to sign on to rules, which are intended to suppress critical coverage.
“Closing off this section of the West Wing severs one more line of accountability between the government and the American people, part of a pattern that is straining the nation’s foundational principle of a free press,” said Tim Richardson, program director for journalism and disinformation at PEN America. “In making this decision, the administration is extending its campaign to control information and evade scrutiny, echoing the Pentagon’s recent gag order on Department of Defense reporters. The White House must immediately rescind these restrictions and restore access.”
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