AP Sues Trump Officials Over White House Ban
The Associated Press (AP) has filed a lawsuit against three Trump administration officials after its journalists were barred from White House events, the Oval Office, and Air Force One for refusing to use "Gulf of America" in reporting.
Filed in the US District Court in Washington, the lawsuit argues that the ban violates the First and Fifth Amendments of the Constitution. AP is seeking an emergency hearing to have the ban declared unconstitutional, CE Report quotes Anadolu Agency
"The press and all Americans have the right to choose their own words without government retaliation," AP lawyers stated.
The lawsuit names White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt, and Deputy Chief of Staff Taylor Budowich as defendants. The White House action followed AP’s continued use of "Gulf of Mexico," despite an executive order by President Donald Trump renaming it "Gulf of America."
Trump defended the move, stating he would not allow AP back in the Oval Office until they "agree that it's the Gulf of America." He also criticized AP’s coverage of him and his administration.
While the White House claims AP remains credentialed like other media outlets, AP argues that exclusion from key press events denies access to millions who rely on its reporting. The agency has maintained its stance, citing international recognition of "Gulf of Mexico."
