

Swamp Notes: Trump vs the press
33 snips Mar 1, 2025
Chris Grimes, FT's Los Angeles bureau chief, offers sharp insights into the tense relationship between Donald Trump and the media. They discuss the White House's controversial decision to selectively grant access to reporters, raising alarms about journalistic integrity. The duo also critiques how media ownership, exemplified by Jeff Bezos's influence on The Washington Post, shapes political narratives. They explore Trump's strategies to restrict media access, highlighting the ongoing struggle for independent journalism in a politically charged environment.
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White House Press Pool
- The White House press pool allows news organizations to cover the president in intimate settings, like the Oval Office or Air Force One.
- Access is determined by the White House Correspondents Association, ensuring various outlets get a turn.
White House Control Over Press Pool
- The White House announced it would control who participates in the press pool, raising concerns about biased access.
- This allows the government to choose who has close access to the president, potentially favoring friendly voices.
Trump's Media Feuds
- Even before his second inauguration, Trump sued ABC News and feuded with CBS over a Kamala Harris interview.
- These lawsuits, though legally questionable, aim to pressure media outlets, especially those facing financial insecurity.