Judge grills Pentagon over restrictive press access policy amid court fight

A federal judge pressed the Pentagon over its new press-access policy after previously striking down an older version that vastly restricted reporters’ access, signaling concern that the interim rules—such as restricted hallway access, a shuttle option, a planned annex, and potential credential revocation for asking unapproved questions—could still violate the First Amendment. Defense officials argued the changes reduce leaks and improve security, while the Times urged swift restoration of access as the court considers the policy, with the judge requesting written responses by Tuesday.