Leavitt Expands White House Press Access, Prioritizing Independent Media

The White House has received more than 7,000 applications from independent journalists, content creators, and podcasters seeking press credentials after Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced new guidelines allowing alternative media to participate in briefings. The move represents a significant departure from the traditional media landscape that has long controlled access to the administration.

Leavitt, in her first official briefing, made it clear that the Trump administration will not limit access to corporate news organizations. “The Trump White House will speak to all media outlets and personalities, not just the legacy media that are seated in this room,” she stated. Her announcement opened the door for voices outside of mainstream journalism to cover the administration directly.

To further solidify this shift, the administration introduced a “New Media Seat” at the front of the James S. Brady Press Briefing Room. This seat will be designated for members of independent media who secure approval to report from the White House. Additionally, the Trump administration has reinstated the hard passes of over 400 journalists whose credentials were revoked under the previous administration.

In a break from long-standing tradition, Leavitt gave the first questions to independent media figures, bypassing the Associated Press, which typically leads White House briefings. The first two reporters called on were Matt Boyle of Breitbart and Mike Allen of Axios, reinforcing the administration’s commitment to engaging with non-traditional outlets.

The Trump administration has consistently pushed back against legacy media’s dominance in shaping political narratives. By expanding access, the White House is taking direct steps to bypass corporate media filters and ensure that independent journalists have a role in informing the public.

While mainstream media has yet to respond formally to the new press access structure, the overwhelming number of applications suggests a shift in how news is being covered in Washington.