Judge Rules White House Violated First Amendment by Barring AP Over “Gulf of America” Naming Dispute

A federal judge has ruled that the White House violated the Constitution by barring the Associated Press (AP) from Oval Office events due to the news organization’s refusal to adopt the term “Gulf of America,” Fox News reports.

US District Judge Trevor N. McFadden, a Trump appointee, issued the ruling Tuesday, stating that the White House discriminated against the AP based on viewpoint, a violation of the First Amendment.

The case stemmed from a directive issued by President Donald Trump on his first day in office to rename the “Gulf of Mexico” to the “Gulf of America.” The AP, however, maintained its long-standing practice of referring to the body of water by its original name.

In its internal style guide, the AP explained:

“The Gulf of Mexico has carried that name for more than 400 years. The Associated Press will refer to it by its original name while acknowledging the new name Trump has chosen. As a global news agency that disseminates news around the world, the AP must ensure that place names and geography are easily recognizable to all audiences.”

In response, the White House blocked the AP from attending events in the Oval Office and on Air Force One in February. White House deputy chief of staff Taylor Budowich defended the decision at the time:

“The Associated Press continues to ignore the lawful geographic name change of the Gulf of America. This decision is not just divisive, but it also exposes the Associated Press’ commitment to misinformation. While their right to irresponsible and dishonest reporting is protected by the First Amendment, it does not ensure their privilege of unfettered access to limited spaces, like the Oval Office and Air Force One.”

Judge McFadden refuted this argument, writing:

“The Government offers no other plausible explanation for its treatment of the AP. The Constitution forbids viewpoint discrimination, even in a nonpublic forum like the Oval Office.”

He further stated:

“Under the First Amendment, if the Government opens its doors to some journalists—be it to the Oval Office, the East Room, or elsewhere—it cannot then shut those doors to other journalists because of their viewpoints. The Constitution requires no less.”

McFadden ordered the White House to restore the AP’s press access but delayed the order for one week to allow the White House an opportunity to appeal the ruling.

In a statement Tuesday, AP spokeswoman Lauren Easton expressed gratitude for the court’s decision.