📰Press Secretary Leavitt gives front-row seats to podcasters over mainstream media

When governments choose which reporters can ask questions, they control what information reaches citizens. Independent press access protects democratic accountability and prevents authoritarian information control.

Mainstream journalism provides professional standards and fact-checking while alternative media may lack editorial oversight. Balance between different media types ensures diverse perspectives and accountability.

Established protocols for press briefings and reporter access prevent administrations from controlling information through favoritism. Democratic transparency requires systematic rather than selective press access.

When presidents limit press access or favor certain outlets, they shape public understanding of government actions. Democratic governance requires comprehensive rather than filtered information flow.