White House Tightens Press Access With New Security Restrictions

The White House has issued new restrictions limiting journalists' access to the West Wing's Room 140, known as "Upper Press." This enforcement comes after similar measures were implemented at the Department of Defense, creating concerns over press freedoms.

According to a National Security Council memorandum, the new rule requires that journalists secure appointments before approaching communications officials near the Oval Office. The decision is attributed to the presence of sensitive material and the need for coordination among governmental staff.

The White House Correspondents Association has not provided an immediate comment. However, this announcement follows the Defense Department's restriction enforcement, which compelled numerous media outlets to return Pentagon credentials, arguing these measures could undermine independent journalism.