Pentagon to remove media offices after judge strikes down rules for reporters

A federal judge has ruled that the Pentagon's new media access rules violate the Constitution, prompting the Defense Department to overhaul its credentialing system and remove on-site media offices from the building. The military had instituted stricter requirements for reporter access that a court found unconstitutional, likely on First Amendment grounds. The Pentagon's response—issuing new credentials while eliminating permanent media workspace—effectively restructures how journalists cover the department and may limit the press's ability to rapidly report on Pentagon activities. The removal of media offices represents a significant operational change for news organizations that have maintained bureaus at the building for decades. The ruling underscores ongoing tension between the Trump administration and media institutions over press access to government facilities.