WASHINGTON, Jan. 31, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- National Press Club President Mike Balsamo today issued the following statement in response to the Defense Department's decision to revoke dedicated workspace for certain media organizations at the Pentagon:

"The National Press Club is deeply concerned by the Defense Department's decision to remove certain media organizations from their dedicated spaces in the Pentagon. Any action that restricts the ability of journalists to report on the operations of the U.S. government should alarm all who value transparency and press freedom.

For decades, members of the Pentagon press corps — representing a diverse range of news organizations — have played a vital role in holding military leaders accountable, informing the public and ensuring that decisions of national security are made with full scrutiny. The ability of journalists to work without undue restriction, particularly in covering an institution as critical as the Department of Defense, is fundamental to a free and open democracy.

We stand with the Pentagon Press Association in calling for greater clarity on this decision, and we urge the Defense Department to protect access for all credentialed journalists. The National Press Club will continue to monitor this situation closely and advocate for the rights of reporters to do their jobs without interference."

Founded in 1908, the National Press Club is the world's leading professional organization for journalists. With 2,500 members representing nearly every major journalism organization, the Club is a leading voice for press freedom in the U.S. and worldwide.

Contact: Bill McCarren, 202-662-7534 or wmccarren@press.org for the Press Freedom Center at the National Press Club

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SOURCE National Press Club