The Trump administration has introduced stringent new measures limiting journalists’ access to key areas within the White House press office. Effective immediately, reporters are barred from entering the ‘Upper Press’ area, located adjacent to the Oval Office, without prior appointment. This decision, outlined in a memo from the White House National Security Council (NSC), cites the need to safeguard ‘sensitive material’ from unauthorized disclosure. The ‘Upper Press’ zone houses the office of Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt and is a critical hub for media interactions. White House Communications Director Steven Cheung defended the policy, alleging that reporters had been ‘ambushing’ cabinet secretaries and secretly recording audio and video in the area. However, no concrete evidence was provided to substantiate these claims. Journalists retain access to the ‘Lower Press’ area, situated near the White House briefing room, where junior press officers are stationed. This move is part of a broader trend of tightening media access under the Trump administration, which has also imposed new restrictions at the Pentagon and reduced access for mainstream outlets while favoring right-wing media. The policy has drawn comparisons to similar measures during the Clinton administration, which were later rescinded. Critics argue that these restrictions undermine press freedom and transparency, while supporters claim they are necessary to protect sensitive information.