The Pentagon's new policy, requiring journalists to publish only officially authorized information, has sparked a widespread rebellion among major news organizations, who view it as an attack on press freedom and a transformation of reporters into state functionaries.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's new policy, which demands reporters sign an agreement to publish only information "explicitly authorized" by the Defense Department, has been met with near-universal rejection from major news organizations. Drawing parallels to how veteran reporters like NPR's Tom Bowman uncovered truths beyond official Pentagon narratives, critics argue the policy would turn journalists into "state functionaries," undermining the core principles of a free and independent press. News outlets including The Guardian, Associated Press, The New York Times, Reuters, Politico, The Washington Post, and even Fox News have collectively refused to comply, asserting the policy is "without precedent and threatens core journalistic protections." Only the propaganda outlet One America News has agreed to sign. Hegseth's response to the widespread defiance was dismissive, sending "bye-bye" emojis. This escalation follows previous restrictions, such as banning unescorted journalists. Former AP editor Dan Perry labels the policy a "war on truth" that imperils the First Amendment and the public's right to know. Despite the loss of official access, journalists are expected to continue their work through alternative methods like leaks, FOIA requests, and legal protections.
