Justice Department investigates major television networks over press pool suspension

The United States Department of Justice is investigating major television networks over possible antitrust violations, NPR and NBC News reported. The probe follows a brief suspension of shared press pool coverage of President Donald Trump by the networks last month. [1][2][3][8]

According to the Washington Examiner, the news organizations were asked on Friday to supply communications and materials concerning the White House television press pool. The outlets facing scrutiny include ABC, CBS, CNN, NBC, and Fox News. [3]

The brief suspension by the networks occurred after President Trump blocked several news outlets from fully accessing White House grounds, the Washington Examiner reported. NPR noted that the investigation escalates ongoing disputes between the administration and the media, which include court actions over press credentials. [1][3][8]