Administration revokes press pass in act of retaliation
On Nov. 7, CNN Chief White House Correspondent Jim Acosta’s press credentials were revoked in the wake of a heated interaction with the President during the White House’s post-election press conference. Press Secretary Huckabee Sanders’ cited the cause as Acosta “placing his hands” on a White House intern that was attempting to take the microphone. The video of the transaction is evidence that Acosta’s actions do not merit this description, nor the retribution that followed.
The press is a necessary check on all branches of America’s government, and an essential institution for a strong democracy. It is the press’ responsibility to ask tough questions and provide oversight. Retaliation against the press or any political watchdog for performing its constitutionally protected duties should not be tolerated.