Anderson Cooper 360 Media Outlets Refuse To Sign Pentagon's New Press Access Rules
Oct 15, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Kyung La, CNN's senior investigative correspondent, reveals the alarming details of a crypto ATM scam, showcasing the trickery that led victims like Gus Kasin to lose thousands. Former federal prosecutor Jeffrey Toobin analyzes the controversial new Pentagon press access rules, examining the legal implications and potential for court challenges. The refusal of major news outlets to accept these constraints raises vital questions about freedom of the press versus national security. Tune in for a deep dive into these pressing issues!
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Pentagon's New Press Pledge Sparks Rejection
- The Pentagon demanded reporters sign a pledge forbidding use of non-official material, risking access loss for noncompliance.
- Major news outlets, including CNN, ABC, CBS, NBC and Fox, publicly declined, calling the policy unprecedented and threatening press protections.
Press Corps Is Informal Intelligence For Defense
- Admiral John Kirby said the policy makes little sense and harms both the DoD and public information flow.
- He argued losing daily face-to-face engagement removes a vital informal intelligence source for officials.
Reporting Led To Rapid MRAP Deployment
- Kirby recounted a 2007 USA Today story that pressured the Pentagon to deploy MRAP vehicles quickly.
- Analysis later estimated those reporting-driven deployments saved roughly 10,000 lives.
