Pentagon to Issue New Press Credentials, Remove Media Offices

Department disagrees with court ruling, plans to appeal decision allowing reporters access

Mar. 24, 2026 at 4:18am

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The U.S. Defense Department announced it will issue new press credentials but remove media offices from the Pentagon after a judge sided with The New York Times in a lawsuit over limits on reporters' access to the building. Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell said the agency disagrees with the ruling and will appeal.

Why it matters

This decision highlights the ongoing tensions between the military and the media, with the Pentagon seeking to restrict access and control the narrative, while media outlets fight for their constitutional rights to report freely. The outcome could set an important precedent for press freedoms.

The details

Under the new policy, reporters will be able to work from an 'annex' on Pentagon grounds but outside the main building. They will still have access for press conferences and interviews arranged through the public affairs team, but will require an escort. The Times sued the Pentagon and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, claiming the credentialing policy violates journalists' constitutional rights.

  • On March 23, 2026, the Pentagon announced the new press credential policy.
  • Last week, U.S. District Judge Paul Friedman ruled in favor of The New York Times, siding against the Pentagon's limits on reporter access.

The players

Sean Parnell

Pentagon spokesperson who announced the new press credential policy.

Paul Friedman

U.S. District Judge who ruled against the Pentagon's limits on reporter access.

Pete Hegseth

Defense Secretary named in The New York Times' lawsuit against the Pentagon.

The New York Times

News organization that sued the Pentagon over its press credential policy.

The Associated Press

News organization awaiting a decision on its separate lawsuit against the Trump administration over reduced access to presidential events.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.