The U.S. Department of Justice is investigating major television networks after they suspended the White House television press pool amid an ongoing dispute over press access. According to The Hollywood Reporter, the investigation will examine whether the networks violated federal antitrust laws by collectively suspending coverage after restrictions were placed on CNN, MS NOW and Politico.
CBS, NBC, ABC and Fox News supported their fellow news organizations by suspending the television press pool, which provides shared coverage of White House events. Participating networks also share the costs associated with that coverage.
Justice Department spokeswoman Emily Covington confirmed the investigation Saturday, stating that coordinated boycotts between commercial competitors could violate the Sherman Act. The Hollywood Reporter notes that the department contacted the networks Friday and requested communications related to their decision to suspend the pool.
The investigation follows several legal disputes involving the Trump administration and major news organizations. Last month, President Donald Trump barred CNN, MS NOW and Politico from White House grounds after criticizing their reporting, prompting the outlets to challenge the restrictions in court.
As mxdwn previously reported, ABC challenged the Federal Communications Commission’s decision to review eight broadcast licenses years ahead of schedule. ABC argued that the review was retaliation for its coverage. At the same time, the Justice Department maintained that the action followed Disney’s response to an investigation into its diversity, equity and inclusion practices.
In separate coverage, mxdwn reported that CNN, MS NOW and Politico sought longer-term protection after Trump revoked their White House press credentials. Although a federal judge temporarily restored their access, the outlets argued that the restrictions violated their constitutional rights and sought continued protection while their lawsuit proceeded.
The latest investigation introduces another legal challenge as the administration and news organizations continue disputing press access. While the Justice Department is examining whether the networks’ coordinated actions violated competition laws, it has not established any wrongdoing.
Meanwhile, the White House has launched its own YouTube channel, Trump TV, to provide live coverage of administration events directly to viewers. The Justice Department has not announced charges against the networks, and its investigation will determine whether further action is warranted under federal antitrust law.