Washington DC - CNN, MS NOW, and Politico have asked a judge to step in over fears that President Donald Trump may issue a "complete ban" against news outlets he doesn't like.
In a filing submitted on Monday, the three outlets argued that the Trump administration was seeking to "retaliate" against them, as its motive is "to punish and chill journalism they dislike."
"The White House's words and actions leave little doubt that it will immediately reinstitute a complete ban of CNN, MS NOW, and POLITICO if allowed the opportunity," the filing argues.
On September 19, Trump had journalists with the three outlets barred from the White House and press pools after he accused them of sharing "fake news" and "fiction and lies."
In response, the outlets filed a joint lawsuit asking for a temporary restraining order against the ban, arguing it violates the First Amendment, which upholds the right to a free press.
Judge Timothy Kelly agreed, ruling it "likely violated their constitutional due process rights" and issuing a two-week order restoring their access, which is set to expire on October 8.
Trump and his allies have been adamantly defending the president's move, with Vice President JD Vance refusing to call it a "ban" and the Department of Justice insisting Trump has the power to "control reporters."