The Trump administration has removed several mainstream media outlets from their dedicated Pentagon office spaces, allowing new organizations to take their place. The Department of Defense notified NBC News, The New York Times, NPR, and Politico that they must vacate their workspaces within two weeks.
The newly implemented “annual media rotation program” aims to expand access to Pentagon press offices, replacing long-established outlets with One America News, Breitbart News, the New York Post, and HuffPost. The change has sparked outrage among legacy media figures, who claim it unfairly benefits conservative outlets.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who assumed office just one week before the decision, has long been critical of how the mainstream press covers military affairs. Many conservatives argue that legacy media have spread misinformation on defense matters, particularly regarding the war in Ukraine.
NBC News responded by calling the decision “disappointing,” while NPR argued that the move interferes with its “public interest mission.” Politico also expressed concern that losing its Pentagon office would hinder its ability to report breaking news. However, Pentagon officials have confirmed that all removed outlets will still have full access to briefings and press events.
The rotation program does not prevent any news organization from covering the Pentagon. Instead, it ensures that other voices have the opportunity to report from inside the building. The Pentagon has not yet provided details on how long each rotation will last or what criteria will determine future assignments.
The Trump administration has also made changes at the White House, restoring press credentials to independent journalists and increasing access for nontraditional media. The shift at the Pentagon is another step in broadening media representation within government agencies.
