Melania Trump’s office grants media access despite White House ban

First Lady Melania Trump’s office has approved press credentials for CNN and Politico for a United Nations General Assembly event, despite President Donald Trump’s ban on the outlets at the White House.

The credentials were approved for a September 22 event focused on expanding Melania Trump’s “Fostering the Future Together” coalition, an initiative aimed at promoting children’s well-being through education and technology, CNN reports. 

CNN’s credentials were approved on September 20, one day after the president’s restrictions on CNN, MS NOW and Politico took effect. The decision highlights a different approach by the first lady’s office to media access as the three outlets challenge the White House restrictions in court.

A source familiar with the matter said Melania Trump is aware of the ban and that her office had discretion over whether reporters from the affected outlets would be granted access to her event.

The First Lady is closely involved in planning her public appearances, including her remarks, the presentation of her events and press releases, according to the report.

The three news organisations have filed a First Amendment lawsuit seeking to restore their White House access, with a hearing scheduled for September 23.

By Sabina Mammadli