Additional Coverage:
The Pentagon is shaking up media access, implementing a new annual rotation program for office spaces in the Correspondents’ Corridor. Longtime tenants like The New York Times, NBC News, NPR, and Politico will be vacating their offices.
These coveted spaces will be offered to The New York Post, Breitbart News, One America News Network, and The Huffington Post. The change, effective February 14th, aims to “broaden access,” according to a Pentagon memo.
While losing their dedicated offices, the outgoing media organizations will retain their access to Pentagon briefings and potential travel opportunities with officials.
NPR expressed concern, stating the decision hinders their ability to inform the public and directly connect Americans with Pentagon leadership. The New York Times called the move “concerning” and not in the public interest. NBC News expressed disappointment but vowed to maintain its journalistic integrity.
This shift follows the recent Senate confirmation of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, a process marked by controversy and intense scrutiny from the media outlets now losing their Pentagon offices. It also coincides with the White House’s decision to grant briefing room access to “new media,” including online personalities.