Justice Department investigates major TV networks over press pool boycott

The situation

Real talk: the tension between the White House and the media is hitting a new level. The Department of Justice is currently investigating major television networks—including CBS, ABC, CNN, Fox, and NBC—to see if they broke antitrust laws by temporarily hitting pause on the television press pool system.

This all started back in mid-September when President Trump decided to revoke the White House credentials for CNN, MSNOW, and Politico. The administration claimed these outlets were pushing 'fake news' and even sent letters accusing them of compromising national security and failing to meet standards of 'professionalism and decorum' over their coverage of topics like the war with Iran and the Republican midterm convention.

The boycott

When those credentials were yanked, the five major networks that make up the rotating press pool—which covers the president’s travel and shares footage with other outlets—stood in solidarity. They collectively decided to suspend their coverage during that time, which just happened to coincide with Chinese President Xi Jinping’s state visit to Washington.

In a joint statement, the networks argued, 'The public has a vital interest in receiving accurate, independent information about its government. No administration should reject a news organization because it objects to its reporting.'

What happens next?

The DOJ is now looking at whether this coordinated boycott violated the Sherman Act, which is a federal law meant to stop monopolistic business moves. DOJ spokesperson Emily Covington confirmed the investigation, saying, 'Group boycotts among commercial competitors can violate the Sherman Act.'

Meanwhile, the legal drama for the banned outlets is still ongoing. While U.S. District Judge Timothy Kelly initially granted a temporary restraining order to get their credentials reinstated, the White House has reportedly still been blocking CNN and Politico from the Oval Office and Air Force One. The judge extended the restraining order through next Tuesday.

Why it matters

This isn't just a beef between a few news channels and the government; it's a massive power struggle over press freedom and corporate competition laws. The outcome could set a huge precedent for how the media acts collectively when they feel their access is being threatened, and honestly, the vibes are off for everyone involved.