White House Bars Journalist From Event
The White House has barred an Associated Press (AP) journalist from covering an event, citing the agency’s refusal to use President Donald Trump’s preferred terminology for the Gulf of Mexico.
AP revealed on Wednesday that officials had warned access would be denied unless it adopted “Gulf of America,” the name introduced by Trump’s recent executive order.
The restriction was enforced during an Oval Office event.
The executive order, signed last week, mandates the use of “Gulf of America” in all federal communications and documents, arguing it reflects “a patriotic reassertion of American sovereignty over its coastal waters.”
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The move has drawn criticism from historians and international relations experts, who argue it disregards longstanding geographical conventions and could strain diplomatic relations.
AP executive editor Julie Pace criticised the decision, stating, “This is alarming. The White House should not be in the business of telling journalists what language to use.
“Blocking access over an editorial decision is a clear threat to independent journalism and the principles of the First Amendment.”
This is not the first time the Trump administration has restricted press access.
In 2018, CNN correspondent Jim Acosta was briefly banned from the White House after a heated exchange with Trump during a press conference.
The administration also revoked the press credentials of other reporters over the years, prompting legal challenges and accusations of press suppression.
The White House Correspondents’ Association (WHCA) also condemned the move.
WHCA President Zeke Miller said, “No administration should be able to dictate the language journalists use or bar reporters from events because they don’t like the coverage. This sets a dangerous precedent.”
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
