National Press Club Condemns Pentagon's Restrictions on Journalists

The National Press Club has denounced the Pentagon's unprecedented move to strip dozens of journalists of their access, in a sweeping action that strikes at the heart of press freedom and public accountability. This decision has far-reaching implications, limiting public scrutiny and understanding of the US military. The National Press Club calls on the Department of Defense to immediately restore full access for independent journalists and recommit to the principles that have long distinguished the US from governments that fear their own press.

Key Takeaways:

• The Pentagon has forced dozens of journalists to surrender their credentials, citing new restrictions that limit press access.
• The National Press Club condemns this move as an assault on transparency and an erosion of democratic norms.
• Independent coverage of the US military is essential to public trust and oversight, and the Pentagon's restrictions limit scrutiny and understanding.
• The National Press Club calls on the Department of Defense to restore full access for independent journalists and recommit to press freedom principles.
• The First Amendment does not stop at the Pentagon's gates, and the people's right to know endures with or without the Pentagon's permission.
• The National Press Club has nearly 3,000 members representing nearly every major news organization.
• The Club hosts newsmakers from around the globe, champions press freedom worldwide through its Press Freedom Center, and serves as a hub for journalistic excellence and advocacy.

Statistics:

• Dozens of journalists have been stripped of their Pentagon credentials.
• The Pentagon's restrictions on press access have been condemned by the National Press Club.
• The National Press Club has called on the Department of Defense to restore full access for independent journalists.
• The National Press Club has nearly 3,000 members.
• The Club has hosted newsmakers from around the globe.
• The National Press Club's Press Freedom Center champions press freedom worldwide.

Sources:

• National Press Club press release 2025.
• Statement by National Press Club President Mike Balsamo.