Trump White House welcomes podcasters and influencers to press briefings as trust in MSM declines
By avagrace // 2025-02-05
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  • The second Trump administration announced it will grant White House press credentials to podcasters, social media influencers and independent content creators, marking a significant shift from the traditional press corps model.
  • White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt cited declining trust in mainstream media (MSM), with only 36 percent of Americans in 2024 expressing confidence in traditional news outlets, as a key reason for the change.
  • A front-row seat in the briefing room previously reserved for staff will now rotate among independent media representatives, and approximately 440 journalists whose credentials were revoked under the previous administration will have access reinstated.
  • The move aligns with President Donald Trump’s criticism of legacy media and his successful 2024 campaign strategy of bypassing traditional outlets to connect directly with audiences through podcasts and social media.
  • While supporters view the policy as a necessary evolution in media engagement, critics worry it may undermine journalistic standards and accountability by including untrained influencers in White House reporting.
In a bold move that underscores the shifting media landscape, the second Trump administration will open the doors of the White House press briefing room to podcasters, social media influencers and independent content creators. The decision announced by White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt marks a significant departure from the traditional press corps model and reflects the administration’s ongoing efforts to bypass what it views as a hostile and untrustworthy legacy media. In her debut press briefing on Jan. 28, she framed the policy change as a response to the growing distrust Americans have toward mainstream media (MSM). Leavitt pointed to Gallup polling data showing that trust in mass media has plummeted to historic lows, with 36 percent of Americans in 2024 expressing complete distrust in traditional news organizations. This erosion of confidence, she argued, has driven millions of Americans – particularly younger generations – to seek news from alternative sources such as podcasts, blogs and social media platforms. (Related: Second Trump admin to expand White House press access to DIGITAL INFLUENCERS). The new policy will allow independent journalists, podcasters, and influencers to apply for White House press credentials, provided they pass vetting by Leavitt's office and the Secret Service. In a symbolic gesture, the administration has designated a seat in the briefing room’s front row as the "new media seat," replacing a spot previously reserved for a press secretary staffer. This seat will now be occupied by a rotating selection of independent media representatives, signaling a shift in how the White House engages with the press. The move is consistent with President Donald Trump's long-standing criticism of the MSM, which he has frequently labeled as "fake news" and "enemies of the people." During his first term, Trump's relationship with legacy outlets like CNN, MSNBC and the Washington Post was notoriously contentious, particularly over coverage of the Russiagate allegations.

The new administration's approach to new media

Leavitt emphasized that the Trump White House is committed to adapting to the "new media landscape," a strategy that proved effective during the 2024 campaign. Trump's appearances on popular podcasts hosted by figures like Joe Rogan, Theo Von and the Nelk Boys allowed him to bypass traditional gatekeepers and connect directly with audiences. This approach, Leavitt argued, is essential for ensuring the administration's message reaches all Americans, not just those who consume legacy media. The policy change also includes reinstating press credentials for approximately 440 journalists whose access was revoked under the previous administration. The press secretary framed this as a corrective measure, ensuring that independent voices are not excluded from covering the White House. While the announcement was met with enthusiasm from many in the new media space, it has also raised questions about the implications for journalistic standards and accountability. Critics argue that opening the briefing room to influencers and content creators could dilute the rigor of White House reporting, as these individuals may lack the training or ethical frameworks of traditional journalists. But supporters see the move as a necessary evolution in a media environment where legacy outlets are increasingly seen as out of touch with the public. This policy shift is more than just a logistical change; it's a statement about the future of media and the role of the press in a democracy. By embracing new media, the second Trump administration is challenging the monopoly of legacy outlets and redefining who gets to ask the questions that shape public discourse. Check out WhiteHouse.news for similar stories. Watch Rob Finnerty pointing out that the generations-long media "psy-op" is finally over in this clip. This video is from the NewsClips channel on Brighteon.com.

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Trump administration unveils new rules to expand White House media access. Media's failed smear campaign against Trump cabinet nominees highlights declining influence. Trump ushers in new era of media engagement, prioritizes independent voices over Big Pharma-funded propagandist media. Sources include:  RT.com HollywoodReporter.com TheHill.com Brighteon.com
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