DOJ launches antitrust investigation into legacy TV networks over White House pool coverage

The Justice Department confirmed on Tuesday that it is investigating five legacy television broadcasters for possible antitrust violations tied to their coordinated decision to halt White House press pool coverage of President Donald Trump.

The probe follows a September move by ABC, CBS, CNN, NBC and Fox News to suspend pool coverage after the administration barred CNN, MSNOW and Politico from White House grounds. The networks said the boycott was a response to what they called unfair restrictions on their ability to report.

“Members of the television press pool have proudly boycotted covering White House events. Group boycotts among commercial competitors can violate the Sherman Act,” Justice Department spokeswoman Emily Covington said.

Under the longstanding White House television pool system, competing networks take turns recording presidential events and share the footage with other outlets. By collectively withholding coverage, the broadcasters effectively limited public access to presidential activities.

DOJ officials have contacted the networks, requesting communications and documents related to the coordinated suspension. The agency’s Antitrust Division will determine whether the action qualifies as an unlawful group boycott under the 1890 Sherman Act, which prohibits concerted actions that restrict competition.

The controversy began after Trump’s September 18 decision to rescind credentials for journalists from CNN, Politico and MSNOW, citing national security concerns tied to reporting on the Iran conflict. The three outlets sued, arguing the move infringed on First Amendment rights, and a federal judge issued a temporary restraining order that restored their credentials.

As the investigation proceeds, the Justice Department’s findings could reshape how news organizations coordinate coverage of government events and may set a precedent for future disputes involving media access and competition law.