Judge sides with New York Times in challenge to Pentagon policy limiting reporters' access

PBS NewsHour
by Michael Kunzelman, Associated Press
March 20, 2026
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3 min read

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Federal judge blocks Pentagon from enforcing new policy restricting reporter access to military personnel and facilities.

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A federal judge issued a preliminary injunction Friday blocking the Trump administration from enforcing a new Pentagon policy that restricted press access, ruling that key provisions violate the law. The New York Times challenged the policy, arguing it unconstitutionally limits journalists' ability to report on military operations and decisions. The ruling prevents the Pentagon from applying the restrictions while the legal case proceeds, preserving journalists' established right to access defense officials and facilities for newsgathering. The policy had tightened rules on reporter credentials and Pentagon access in ways the court found likely exceeded the government's authority. The decision represents a significant early test of press freedoms under the current administration.

What's Being Done

A federal judge issued a preliminary injunction Friday blocking enforcement of the Pentagon policy while the legal case proceeds.

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