‘Trump’s Mouthpieces’: the rightwing takeover of the Pentagon press corps

Once considered a prestigious beat for top-tier journalists, the Pentagon press corps has seen a dramatic shift. Previously dominated by veteran reporters from leading newspapers and networks, the press room now features an influx of rightwing activists. At a recent press conference, held amid a series of Pentagon controversies, attendees included allies of former President Donald Trump, a staff member from Turning Point USA, and representatives from a fledgling media venture run by a pillow company founder.

Most mainstream journalists gave up their Pentagon press credentials in October rather than accept a new 21-page policy that imposed tight restrictions on reporting. The guidelines required news organizations to refrain from obtaining unauthorized information and restricted access to certain areas of the Pentagon, effectively limiting independent reporting.

Following the departure of traditional media, the Pentagon granted access to numerous conservative outlets and personalities who agreed to the rules. These included Laura Loomer, known for her provocative views and support of Trump; LindellTV, a streaming channel operated by MyPillow CEO Mike Lindell; and Matt Gaetz, the former congressman now hosting content on One America News Network.

Critics argue this new press corps lacks the expertise to scrutinize Pentagon operations, especially at a time when accountability is crucial. Independent reports have highlighted serious lapses, such as Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth discussing sensitive operational details on Signal, creating potential risks to US missions and personnel. Additionally, questions persist about controversial military actions, including a double strike on an alleged drug boat in the Caribbean.

Experts warn that hyper-partisan commentators and conservative outlets are unlikely to challenge the administration. Carole-Anne Morris, a journalism professor at the University of North Carolina, called the arrangement incredibly problematic, noting that journalists agreeing to these restrictions can only relay information approved by Pentagon officials, eliminating independent reporting.

The New York Times has filed a lawsuit against the Pentagon, alleging that these measures violate journalists First Amendment rights by limiting their ability to question government officials and gather independent information. Gregg Leslie from Arizona State Universitys First Amendment Clinic described the restrictions as a fundamental breach of free speech protections, stressing that such discriminatory access undermines journalistic independence.

Despite the criticism, the Pentagon issued a report celebrating its new media corps of over 70 independent journalists, bloggers, and social media influencers. According to Press Secretary Kingsley Wilson, this group is better equipped to inform a broader swath of the American public and ensures the Pentagon reaches more Americans than before. The report emphasized the departments efforts to onboard the new press members, highlighting a three-day orientation program for the recently credentialed personnel.

Author: Logan Reeves