White House TV Pool Resumes Coverage After Judge Restores CNN's Access

White House television pool coverage has recommenced following a federal judge's order that temporarily reinstated access for CNN and other news organizations. The coverage, which had been suspended in solidarity with CNN after its White House credentials were revoked, resumed on Friday, September 25, 2026. The move came after U.S. District Judge Timothy Kelly ruled that the Trump administration's ban on CNN, MS NOW, and Politico likely violated the outlets' Fifth Amendment due process rights, issuing a temporary restraining order on Thursday, September 24, 2026.

Despite the judge's overnight ruling, journalists from the affected outlets initially faced delays and denials when attempting to enter the White House on Thursday morning, prompting their legal teams to request an emergency hearing. However, access was eventually restored by midday. The White House television pool, composed of major networks that share footage of presidential events, had ceased operations earlier in the week in protest of the ban, resulting in a temporary blackout of video coverage for significant events, including a state visit by Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Judge Kelly's decision underscored concerns about press freedom, dismissing the administration's arguments regarding national security and emphasizing the necessity for clear standards when revoking press credentials. The temporary reinstatement is set for 14 days, allowing the legal challenge to the administration's ban to proceed.