Independent Media Flocks To White House After Leavitt Opens Press Access

The Trump administration is transforming media access at the White House, welcoming independent journalists, online influencers, and podcasters to take part in daily briefings. Since Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced the policy change, more than 7,000 applications have been submitted for press credentials.

Leavitt made it clear in her first press briefing that the administration would not allow traditional media to control the narrative. “This White House will not be limited to the same corporate media voices. We are ensuring that independent journalists and digital media have a seat at the table,” she said.

As part of this shift, the administration has reinstated press credentials that were revoked under the previous administration. Additionally, the White House has designated a front-row seat in the briefing room for members of the new media, ensuring they have direct access to the administration’s messaging.

During the briefing, Leavitt broke from tradition by giving the first question to Breitbart’s Matt Boyle, rather than the Associated Press. The decision highlights the administration’s effort to decentralize the power of mainstream outlets in the press room.

President Donald Trump has long criticized legacy media, opting instead to communicate with Americans through alternative platforms. The expansion of press access follows his administration’s broader effort to engage with a wider audience through new media.

The White House has not yet detailed how it will process the thousands of press credential applications, but the overwhelming response suggests a major shift in how the administration’s messages will be delivered.