War Secretary Pete Hegseth is facing pushback from several media outlets over a new press policy at the Pentagon. The policy, which Hegseth argues aligns the Pentagon with existing rules at other military installations, has been criticized for potentially violating First Amendment rights.
In a memo released in late May, the Pentagon outlined new requirements for journalists holding a Pentagon Facility Alternate Credential (PFAC). These include signing a form that details information security measures and compliance expectations. However, many journalists and their employers are refusing to sign, claiming the policy imposes unnecessary restrictions on their ability to report.
The Washington Post’s Executive Editor, Matt Murray, stated that their journalists would not comply with the new policy, arguing it undermines First Amendment protections. He emphasized their commitment to fair reporting on Pentagon policies. Hegseth responded to this and similar statements from other outlets with a simple waving hand emoji, seemingly dismissing their concerns.
Jeffrey Goldberg, Editor in Chief of The Atlantic, echoed these sentiments, saying their journalists would also not sign. He criticized the policy as a violation of First Amendment rights and stressed the public’s right to know how military resources are being used. The New York Times, through its Washington Bureau Chief Richard Stevenson, also expressed strong objections, highlighting that the policy could punish journalists for routine news gathering.
Hegseth later clarified the new rules on Twitter, stating that access to the Pentagon is a privilege, not a right. He outlined the changes, which include requiring visible badges for press and prohibiting journalists from soliciting criminal acts. He asserted that these measures are standard at other military installations.
Interestingly, the backlash isn’t limited to traditionally liberal outlets. Newsmax, along with others like The Wall Street Journal and CNN, has also stated they will not sign the new policy, citing similar concerns about its necessity and fairness.
As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how this standoff will affect media access to the Pentagon and the broader implications for press freedom in reporting on national security matters.
