TV networks plan to resume pooled coverage of President Donald Trump Friday after a blackout prompted by his ban on CNN, MS NOW and Politico. A judge lifted the ban Thursday, but CNN and MS NOW said their reporters were denied entry to Xi Jinping’s state dinner that night.
CBS, the network assigned to lead Friday’s pool, would resume its usual coverage, including Trump and Xi’s visit to the National Archives; a CNN reporter was expected to join the pool. But Ted Boutrous, a lawyer for the outlets, said it was unclear whether the judge’s order also restored pool access.
The two-week temporary restraining order is in effect as the outlets’ lawsuit continues. The White House restored their access to its grounds Thursday after a brief delay. Judge Timothy Kelly said the outlets had not received proper notice before their press passes were revoked. The Justice Department argued that White House access was a privilege and the ban served national security; the outlets alleged First Amendment and due-process violations.
