On September 18, 2025, the Pentagon released a new official media policy imposing tighter restrictions on reporters covering defense and national security. The new rules stated that journalists may not gather nor share any information not formally authorized for release, and that doing so would lead to the revocation of their Pentagon press passes.
On October 14th at 4 p.m., over 30 news organizations pushed back against these tough guidelines, including prominent news figures such as The New York Times, The Washington Post, CNN, CBS News, PBS, ABC News, NBC News — even pro-Trump news sites, such as Fox News Media. The reporters banded together and vacated The Pentagon in unison, carrying various boxes, chairs, copy machines, and supplies that once were housed inside the building.
Only 15 reporters have accepted the Pentagon’s new policy, primarily consisting of outlets that have been described as pro-Trump.
“We believe the requirements are unnecessary and onerous and hope that the Pentagon will review the matter further,” rightwing broadcasting outlet Newsmax told Times journalist Erik Wemple.
Critics of the policy argue that the new restrictions limit journalists’ ability to investigate and report on public matters of interest, even possibly infringing on first amendment rights. Supporters of the policy however, claim it is necessary due to a recent string of high-profile information leaks that caused embarrassment for military leadership and raised concerns about operational security.
“I think he finds the press to be very disruptive in terms of world peace,” Trump said, backing up Pete Hegseth’s rules, adding, “The press is very dishonest.”
The debate between the reasonableness of these restrictions continues as news organizations decide whether to return under the new conditions, or to continue their protests. Overall, this issue underscores the ongoing tension between national security concerns and the role of free press in a democratic society.
