White House Blocks Politico from Air Force One Travel

The White House barred Politico from traveling on Air Force One on Monday, preventing the news organization from serving as the print pool representative during a trip to Grand Island, Nebraska. This action follows a September 18 decision by Donald Trump to ban Politico, CNN, and MS NOW from the White House complex, citing the publication of "fake news" that allegedly risked national security.

Although Judge Timothy J. Kelly issued a temporary restraining order requiring the administration to reinstate press badges, the White House has continued to block CNN and Politico from the presidential aircraft. White House Communications Director Steven Cheung defended the move, arguing that access to the White House complex is distinct from access to restricted spaces like Air Force One or the Oval Office.

Attorney Ted Boutrous, representing the news outlets, maintains that the ban is unconstitutional and causes profound harm to the First Amendment and the public. A hearing for a preliminary injunction is scheduled for Thursday.