WASHINGTON, Feb. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- National Press Club President Mike Balsamo today issued the following statement on the White House's retaliatory actions against The Associated Press:

"Freedom of speech is not a privilege the government grants or revokes — it is a right that belongs to the people. The White House barring Associated Press journalists for not using government-imposed language is a blatant violation of the First Amendment and a brazen attack on press freedom.

Today's actions represent a dangerous escalation of government interference in journalism and a direct threat to the public's right to independent, fact-based information.

The First Amendment is clear: the government has no authority over the editorial decisions of news organizations. Yet, while claiming to uphold free speech, the White House is actively undermining it by restricting press access in retaliation for independent editorial judgment.

The First Amendment does not just protect the press; it protects the public. If the government can dictate the language journalists use, it can dictate the language you use.

A free and independent press is not just about holding government accountable. It ensures that Americans have the information they need to make informed decisions about their lives, their communities and their democracy.

The National Press Club stands unwavering in defense of the First Amendment and in solidarity with all those committed to independent reporting.

We call on the White House to immediately reverse this decision and reaffirm its commitment to press freedom. The First Amendment is not up for debate — it is the foundation of our democracy, and we will fight to protect it."

About the National Press Club: Founded in 1908, the National Press Club is the world's leading professional organization for journalists. The Club has 2,500 members representing nearly every major journalism organization. The Club and its Press Freedom Center are leading voices for press freedom matters in the U.S. and worldwide.

Contact: Bill McCarren, 202-662-7534, wmccarren@press.org
Director of the Press Freedom Center at the National Press Club

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SOURCE National Press Club