The New York Times has initiated legal proceedings against the US Department of Defence and its secretary, Pete Hegseth, over what the newspaper describes as unconstitutional restrictions on press freedoms at the Pentagon.
New Rules Spark Credential Protest
In October, journalists assigned to cover the military headquarters in Arlington, Virginia, were presented with a new 21-page form to sign. The document, issued by the Trump administration, contained rules that would severely limit their ability to conduct independent reporting. Reporters were asked to agree not to solicit any information not pre-approved by Secretary Hegseth and faced new limits on their movement within the building.
The policy led to a significant protest, with many leading news organisations handing back their Pentagon credentials in response. A spokesperson for the Times, Charlie Stadtlander, stated the legal action was a direct challenge to an attempt "to exert control over reporting the government dislikes."
Constitutional Challenge in Federal Court
The lawsuit was filed in the US District Court in Washington DC. It argues that the Pentagon's new policy represents a clear infringement of the First Amendment rights protecting free speech and a free press. The legal filing contends the rules are designed to restrict journalists from doing their core job: asking questions of government employees and gathering information beyond official statements.
A key point of contention is that punishment could result from "reporting any information not approved by department officials," regardless of whether the information is classified or where the news gathering takes place. The Times asserts this is a scheme the Supreme Court has previously recognised as unconstitutional.
Media Backlash and Official Defence
The move by the Pentagon has united major news outlets in opposition. In October, the five major US broadcast networks issued a joint statement condemning the policy as "without precedent" and a threat to core journalistic protections.
However, Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell defended the approach, stating the form merely asked reporters to acknowledge understanding the policy, not to agree with it. He characterised the media reaction as a "full blown meltdown" and said the policy was necessary for national security and the welfare of troops.
The dispute occurs amidst a noticeable shift in the Pentagon's media engagements. A press briefing earlier this week featured right-wing commentators and pundits perceived as more loyal to the Trump administration, rather than the traditional press corps.
