Federal Judge Issues Late-Night Decision Restoring Journalists’ White House Access, But Reporters Say They Still Aren’t Allowed In: Speculation Mounts That Case Will Head To The Supreme Court

A federal judge ordered the White House early Thursday to immediately restore the press credentials of several banned news outlets, ruling that the administration’s abrupt lockout likely violated constitutional due process. However, hours after the middle-of-the-night decision, affected reporters stated they were still being denied entry to the White House grounds.

U.S. District Judge Timothy Kelly issued a 14-day temporary restraining order in response to an emergency lawsuit filed jointly by CNN, Politico, and MS NOW. The outlets challenged the sudden deactivation of their journalists’ “hard passes.”

In his ruling, Judge Kelly—a Trump appointee—cited a 1977 D.C. Circuit precedent establishing that the White House cannot arbitrarily revoke credentials without providing formal notice and a meaningful opportunity to respond. He further noted that retroactive letters from the administration citing “national security concerns” lacked adequate factual support.

Despite the federal mandate requiring immediate compliance, the standoff escalated on the ground. Journalists remained outside the security gates hours after the decision was handed down, blocked from entering by security personnel, according to reports.

As news outlets around the country report on the ongoing drama and the seeming failure of White House officials to comply with the Judge’s order, many are now speculating over whether the White House will ultimately accede to the court order or appeal to the Supreme Court, elevating the unprecedented legal battle while prolonging it.