The AP Challenges Trump’s Misrepresentation of Legal Access Dispute

In a contentious legal battle, the Associated Press (AP) has countered false assertions by former President Donald Trump regarding its struggle for media access. The roots of this conflict trace back to last winter when AP resisted an executive order from Trump aimed at renaming the Gulf of Mexico.

The issue escalated publicly when Trump, aboard the USS Harry S. Truman in celebration of the U.S. Navy’s 250th anniversary, mischaracterized the legal proceedings. Claiming victory over AP in court—a statement contrary to reality—Trump suggested that “liberal” media outlets were nearly barred from covering him due to losing their lawsuit.

Contrary to Trump’s claims, the Associated Press emerged victorious in its initial court case. The ruling favored AP, emphasizing the protection of free speech, though an appeal by the government temporarily postponed enforcement pending review by the U.S. Court of Appeals, with arguments scheduled for November.

AP spokesman Patrick Maks clarified that the legal victory reinforced the press’s and public’s fundamental rights to free expression without governmental retaliation. The conflict began in February when Trump’s administration curtailed AP’s access to events like Oval Office briefings or Air Force One trips following a Stylebook guideline advising against using “Gulf of America”—a name not officially adopted.

This led to a lawsuit by AP, arguing the government was penalizing them for their stance. U.S. District Judge Trevor N. McFadden, appointed by Trump, agreed that once reporters are invited, exclusion based on prior writings or statements is impermissible.

Despite this decision, without an enforcement order, access continued as determined by the White House. Traditionally, media organizations like AP were guaranteed participation in such events through their widespread subscriptions to wire services, a practice disrupted during Trump’s term. The administration exerted pressure on various news outlets, settling lawsuits with networks like ABC and CBS, and pursuing legal action against prominent publications including The New York Times and Wall Street Journal.

Trump’s strategy also targeted government-funded media like Voice of America and Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty by attempting to cut their funding. AP countered Trump’s narrative that it was being excluded from coverage, noting alternative methods ensured comprehensive reportage on presidential activities.

Judge McFadden ruled not for perpetual access but equal treatment alongside peer services. The legal dispute underscores broader tensions between media freedom and executive authority, highlighting essential debates over press rights in the modern era.

David Bauder, a media correspondent for AP, provides insights into this ongoing saga. For more on his coverage, follow him at Twitter or BlueSky.

Original Article Source: News-Press Now