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Natalie Harp showed Trump coverage clips before he issued media ban: Report
On Friday, President Donald Trump banned CNN, MS NOW, and Politico from the White House, stripping journalists of access without notice. Trump accused the outlets of 'fake news' and stated, 'I don't want them in my office.'
Aide Natalie Harp reportedly showed Trump clips of television hosts criticizing his administration, triggering the decision. The Wall Street Journal reported Trump's frustrations 'reached a fever pitch' after Harp presented the unflattering coverage.
By Saturday, journalists were denied entry and had badges seized, prompting the three organizations to file a First Amendment lawsuit. They aim to 'defend the principle that the government does not decide what the press reports or publishes.'
The ban surprised White House officials, occurring while chief of staff Susie Wiles was out of town. Trump later characterized the move as 'a very simple ban' when asked for a reason.
Amid falling approval ratings ahead of midterm elections, the ban reflects Trump's broader frustrations. Trump reportedly complained to aides that allies were not sufficiently defending his second term achievements or touting his agenda on television.