After CNN’s Jim Acosta’s hard pass was revoked from the White House, CNN backed Acosta and is a pursuing a lawsuit.
White House Press Secretary released a statement Tuesday after the White House dismissed their lawsuit that demands Acosta’s credentials be restored.
In a statement, Press Secretary Sarah Sanders declared, “We have been advised that CNN has filed a complaint challenging the suspension of Jim Acosta’s hard pass. This is just more grandstanding from CNN, and we will vigorously defend against this lawsuit.”
CNN filed suit against White House Tuesday morning in DC District Court. It claims the revocation of Acosta’s press pass violates their First and Fifth Amendment rights.
(Related: Alexa Gets Asked ‘Who Is Jim Acosta?’ The Response Is Priceless)
Sanders continued, “The White House cannot run an orderly and fair press conference when a reporter acts this way, which is neither appropriate nor professional. The First Amendment is not served when a single reporter, of more than 150 present, attempts to monopolize the floor. If there is no check on this type of behavior it impedes the ability of the President, the White House staff, and members of the media to conduct business.” (Article Continues Below)
Last week, the White House revoked Acosta’s hard pass claiming that he laid hands on an intern after refusing to surrender the microphone during a press conference. (Related: Wallace Says Acosta Tapes Were ‘Altered’, Kellyanne Stops Him In His Tracks)
In their lawsuit, CNN claims, “Acosta’s ability to perform his duties as CNN’s Chief White House correspondent is effectively eliminated.”
They added, “If left unchallenged, the actions of the White House would create a dangerous chilling effect for any journalist who covers our elected officials.” (Article Continues Below)
White House Correspondent Saajar Enjeti for the Daily Caller tweeted the official statement from Press Secretary Sarah Sanders:
(Related: SAVAGE: President Trump UNLOADS On Acosta- ‘Put Down The Mic!’)
https://twitter.com/esaagar/status/1062370466243977216
CNN’s official statement per their lawsuit:
This morning, CNN filed a lawsuit against @realDonaldTrump and top aides. The White House has violated CNN and @Acosta's First Amendment rights of freedom of the press and Fifth Amendment rights to due process. Complaint: https://t.co/43oX6L8xA7 pic.twitter.com/RvJ0Cgh6oi
— CNN Communications (@CNNPR) November 13, 2018
