DOJ pushes back hard in court against CNN's lawsuit over White House press credential suspension.
Key DOJ argument: "Access to the White House is a privilege—not a right." The department called CNN's First Amendment claim "absurd," saying no news org can knowingly publish classified information and still demand privileged access to the White House complex.
DOJ cited 18 U.S.C. 798, federal law prohibiting disclosure of classified material. The government argued prior cases were decided on due process grounds, not First Amendment protections.
President Trump personally signed off on the suspension and provided CNN a list of alleged national security breaches. CNN has until Friday 5pm to respond. Credentials remain suspended during the investigation.
White House maintains it's giving CNN due process while the probe continues.
Key DOJ argument: "Access to the White House is a privilege—not a right." The department called CNN's First Amendment claim "absurd," saying no news org can knowingly publish classified information and still demand privileged access to the White House complex.
DOJ cited 18 U.S.C. 798, federal law prohibiting disclosure of classified material. The government argued prior cases were decided on due process grounds, not First Amendment protections.
President Trump personally signed off on the suspension and provided CNN a list of alleged national security breaches. CNN has until Friday 5pm to respond. Credentials remain suspended during the investigation.
White House maintains it's giving CNN due process while the probe continues.