Judge: White House AP Ban Unconstitutional, Cites Bias

A federal judge has sided with the Associated Press (AP), ruling that the White House's decision to limit the news organization's access to press events was unconstitutional. The judge specifically cited "viewpoint discrimination" as the reason for the ruling, arguing that the White House unfairly targeted the AP based on its reporting. The restrictions had prevented AP reporters from attending briefings, entering the Oval Office, and traveling on Air Force One.

The lawsuit was filed by the AP after its reporters were repeatedly denied access to events that other news organizations were allowed to attend. The AP argued that the White House's actions violated the First Amendment, which protects freedom of the press. The judge agreed, stating that the White House's actions had a chilling effect on the AP's ability to report on the government.

The ruling orders the White House to immediately restore the AP's access to all press events. Legal analysts say the decision is a significant victory for press freedom and sets a precedent for future cases involving government restrictions on news organizations. The White House has not yet commented on the ruling.