Justice Department probes TV networks over Trump pool coverage - Reuters

The U.S. Justice Department has opened a probe into several television networks’ handling of White House press pool coverage following the 2024 election. The investigation examines whether actions taken by the networks may have violated antitrust laws.

The focus of the inquiry is on the networks’ decision to limit or boycott coverage after being denied access to the press pool. Officials are assessing whether the coordinated response among the outlets constitutes an unlawful restraint of trade.

According to reports, the White House blocked credentialed reporters from CNN, MSNBC and Politico from participating in the press pool. In response, those outlets reduced their on‑site reporting and altered their coverage of presidential events.

The Justice Department’s Antitrust Division is reviewing communications, policies and any agreements among the networks to determine if the boycott breached competition regulations. The probe is part of a broader effort to enforce antitrust statutes in the media sector.

The investigation could have implications for how news organizations coordinate coverage of the presidency and for the application of antitrust law to media practices.