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D.C. Circuit Upholds Pentagon Journalist Escort Requirement

4/29/2026

Summary

Story summary

The D.C. Circuit panel ruled Trump administration is likely to prove the Pentagon’s journalist-escort requirement, keeping policy pending appeal.
Court suspended Judge Paul Friedman’s order, so journalists must be escorted on Pentagon grounds.
Judges Justin Walker and Bradley Garcia wrote majority, while Judge Michelle Childs dissented, noting escorts hinder verification.
Spokesperson Sean Parnell said rule curbs disclosures, with NYT attorney Theodore Boutrous calling decision narrow and pledging defense of court’s rulings.

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Story summary

The D.C. Circuit panel ruled Trump administration is likely to prove the Pentagon’s journalist-escort requirement, keeping policy pending appeal.
Court suspended Judge Paul Friedman’s order, so journalists must be escorted on Pentagon grounds.
Judges Justin Walker and Bradley Garcia wrote majority, while Judge Michelle Childs dissented, noting escorts hinder verification.
Spokesperson Sean Parnell said rule curbs disclosures, with NYT attorney Theodore Boutrous calling decision narrow and pledging defense of court’s rulings.