Asenior White House official confirmed to Newsweek that the administration has been flooded with over 7,400 requests for the “new media” pass over the first 24 hours since it was announced on Tuesday.
Why It Matters
President Donald Trump has frequently used the phrase “fake news” to dismiss typically unfavorable news reports. He has said he is “providing a great service” by calling out news outlets while suggesting the media is causing division and distrust.
Part of Trump’s success in his 2024 presidential campaign comes from his use of “new media,” specifically social media platforms, like X and Truth Social, as well as podcasts. He used these platforms to connect with younger voters, particularly men. This strategy was reportedly influenced by Trump’s youngest son Barron.
What To Know
At her first news conference on Tuesday, Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced a “new media” pass to welcome bloggers, podcasters, social media influencers and others into the press room.
“The Trump White House will speak to all media outlets and personalities, not just the legacy media who are seated in this room, because according to recent polling from Gallup, Americans’ trust in mass media has fallen to a record low,” Leavitt said. “We welcome independent journalists, podcasters, social media influencers, and content creators to apply for credentials to cover this White House.”
The senior official did not directly respond to Newsweek about whether people with “new media” passes can be expected at the press conference on Friday at 1 p.m. EST.
She had said a front-row seat at the briefing room would be reserved for a member of the “new media.” At the press conference on Friday, Leavitt announced that the Ruthless podcast was the first “new media” member to join the briefing.
Leavitt had also shared at the press conference on Tuesday that the President Donald Trump administration would restore media credentials to the 440 journalists who lost their privileges during the former President Joe Biden administration.
