US Justice Department backs Trump's White House ban on three news outlets

The US Justice Department argued in court that Trump may bar CNN, Politico and MS Now from the White House, calling access a privilege.

• Justice Department lawyers argued Tuesday that White House access is a privilege, not a right, allowing Trump to restrict reporters at the Oval Office.
• CNN, Politico and MS Now sued Monday seeking a temporary restraining order, and Judge Timothy Kelly set a hearing for Wednesday.
• Trump barred the outlets' reporters on Friday and had their credentials confiscated Saturday, citing national security concerns.
• The department's letters cited specific reporting, including CNN's coverage of plans for a bunker under the White House East Wing ballroom.
• Television networks suspended their participation in the White House press pool after CNN's removal.
• Free speech advocates publicly criticized the ban, calling it an attack on press freedom.
• The administration is seeking to overturn the 1977 Sherrill vs Knight ruling limiting presidential power to deny press access.
• Other news organizations filed an amicus brief urging immediate restoration of the outlets' White House access.
• The administration launched 'Trump TV' and defended the ban in public statements by Rubio and Trump on Truth Social.
• A US district court began hearing the outlets' challenge to the ban on Wednesday, with Judge Timothy Kelly yet to issue a ruling.
• Justice Department lawyer Michael Feltschek argued White House access is a privilege, not a right, defending the ban.
• Attorney Theodore Boutrous Jr. called the ban unprecedented and an unreasonable punishment lacking due process.