Hegseth's New Pentagon Policy Sparks Controversy, Dozens of Reporters to Lose Access

Pete Hegseth's new policy is causing a stir. Journalists argue it threatens their independence, and today, many will lose access to the Pentagon.

, and Administrator

2025 October 16 . 6:04 AM

1 min read

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Hegseth's New Pentagon Policy Sparks Controversy, Dozens of Reporters to Lose Access

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has implemented a new policy at the Pentagon, sparking controversy among journalists. The policy, which aims to curb leaks, has been criticized for limiting press freedom and transparency. Today, dozens of reporters will lose building access due to the new rules.

Hegseth, who previously worked at Fox News, has a history of clamping down on leaks. He subjected officials suspected of leaks to lie detector tests after embarrassing press reports. Now, as Defense Secretary, he has introduced a policy that bans journalists from disclosing unauthorized information, even if it's not classified. This move is accused of violating the principle of prior restraint, which prevents the government from determining what a free press can report before publication.

Only One America News Network has agreed to the new policy, while other news organizations have refused. Fox News, where Hegseth once worked, and other TV networks have declined to sign the pledge, citing threats to journalistic protections. Pentagon reporters, including NPR's Tom Bowman, have refused to comply, arguing that the policy turns journalists into 'stenographers and not reporters'.

Hegseth's new policy has led to a significant reduction in Pentagon press access and information sharing, despite his promise to increase transparency. Dozens of reporters will lose their building access today, raising concerns about the future of Pentagon press coverage.