Temporary order comes after the three news organizations challenged the administration's decision to restrict their White House access.

WASHINGTON — September 24, 2026 — A federal judge has ordered the White House to restore access for CNN, MS NOW and Politico, temporarily blocking the Trump administration from enforcing its ban on the three news organizations.

U.S. District Judge Timothy Kelly issued a 14-day temporary restraining order early Thursday after the news organizations challenged the administration's decision in court.

The outlets argued that the restrictions were based on the content of their reporting and violated First Amendment protections. The administration has defended its authority over White House press access and disputed the legal arguments made by the organizations.

During Wednesday's hearing, Judge Kelly questioned whether the administration had provided the outlets with adequate due process before restricting their access. The case also involves earlier court decisions concerning journalists' access to government officials and facilities.

The ruling does not resolve the broader lawsuit. Instead, the temporary order keeps access in place while the court considers the legal dispute in greater detail.

The case has become another significant White House–media access dispute, with press organizations and administration officials continuing to debate the government's authority to regulate access to presidential activities.