A federal judge has ruled in favor of the Associated Press (AP) in a legal dispute regarding access to particular spaces within the White House.
The DC District Court Judge’s decision requires White House officials to reinstate the AP’s credentials, which were previously suspended, allowing its journalists to continue reporting from certain high-security areas.
The legal battle began when the White House revoked the AP’s access earlier this year.
The administration cited security concerns and alleged breaches of protocol by the news organization.
The AP contested these claims, arguing that its removal was an unjustified restriction on press freedom.
The White House maintained that its actions were in line with security protocols necessary to protect the confidentiality of sensitive information. It argued that the AP’s presence in certain areas risked the integrity of these precautions.
The AP countered, insisting that its access should be restored as a matter of press freedom.
The news organization contended that its journalists adhere to established procedures and safeguards while operating within the White House.
In his ruling, the judge found that the White House had not sufficiently demonstrated that the AP’s presence threatened security.
The judge emphasized the importance of maintaining a free press as a check on government activities.
By granting the preliminary injunction, the judge effectively restored the AP’s credentials, permitting continued access to the areas in question.