An attorney for The New York Times urged a federal judge on Friday to block a new Pentagon policy that restricts journalist access to the building. The media company contends these limitations deprive the American public of critical information regarding U.S. military operations during wartime.
The lawsuit, filed against the Department of Defense in December, claims the credentialing policy violates journalists' rights. During the hearing, U.S. District Judge Paul Friedman expressed skepticism toward the government’s national security defense for the policy.
Judge Friedman suggested that openness and transparency are currently more vital than ever. The judge has not yet issued a ruling but indicated a decision will be delivered promptly.