Justice Department reportedly probes TV networks over Trump pool boycott
XLC•The Justice Department is reportedly investigating whether ABC, CBS, CNN, NBC and Fox News violated federal antitrust laws by suspending White House coverage after reporter credentials were revoked.
1. Antitrust investigation
The Justice Department said it is investigating whether ABC, CBS, CNN, NBC and Fox News violated federal antitrust laws when they suspended White House coverage after the White House revoked credentials for reporters from three news organizations. A department spokesperson said group boycotts among commercial competitors can violate the Sherman Act.
2. Coverage and access
The networks suspended coverage in solidarity and declined to provide replacement coverage. The White House reinstated credentials on September 24 after a federal judge ruled the ban was likely unconstitutional, but disputes over access to presidential events and pool assignments continued.
