A federal judge has rejected the Associated Press’ (AP) attempt to reclaim special access to President Donald Trump’s events, ruling that the administration is not required to extend exclusive privileges to any particular news organization.
Judge Trevor McFadden denied AP’s request for immediate relief, stating that the outlet still has access to the White House through press briefings and pool reports. The lawsuit followed Trump’s decision to bar AP from certain high-profile events after the outlet refused to use the term “Gulf of America” instead of “Gulf of Mexico.”
TRUMP WINS IN COURT AGAINST THE AP.
THE RESULT: pic.twitter.com/qHMnl01eki
— john jackson (@pvtjokerus) February 25, 2025
The White House defended its decision, emphasizing that AP is not restricted from general media activities. In court filings, administration officials stated that losing “special media access to the president” is not a constitutional issue, as previous presidents have granted or revoked such privileges at their discretion.
White House Epically Reminds the AP It’s the 'Gulf of America' After Pro-Trump Court Ruling https://t.co/6D2PQerMMK
— Fearless45 (@Fearless45Trump) February 25, 2025
Trump addressed the issue directly, stating that AP’s access will remain restricted unless it aligns with the administration’s official language. “We’re going to keep them out until such time as they agree that it’s the Gulf of America,” Trump said.
McFadden sided with the White House, ruling that AP had not demonstrated that its reporting had been hindered in any meaningful way. The judge noted that AP can still cover the administration through traditional means, such as press briefings and pool coverage. A hearing on AP’s broader request for reinstatement is scheduled for March 20.
Following Trump’s executive order, the Department of the Interior has been instructed to update federal records to reflect the new name. February 9 has been designated as “Gulf of America Day.”
