Major networks limit Trump coverage in support of CNN

WASHINGTON — Major US networks ABC, CBS, NBC and Fox News have suspended their participation in the White House television pool after the Trump administration barred CNN from covering presidential activities.

The five networks normally take turns filming the president and sharing the footage with other media organizations. CNN was scheduled to cover Trump’s visit to the United Nations General Assembly in New York, but the other networks declined to send a replacement. As a result, several presidential events will lack the usual pooled television coverage.

CNN, MS NOW and Politico have sued President Donald Trump and his administration after their reporters were denied access to the White House. Trump accused the outlets of producing “fake news,” while the organizations argue that the ban violates the First Amendment’s protections of free speech and press freedom.

The outlets are seeking urgent federal court intervention to suspend the ban. They maintain that the government cannot dictate what the press publishes or punish news organizations for critical reporting. The dispute is being viewed as one of Trump’s most significant confrontations with the media.