Judge Blocks Pentagon Reporter Escort Rule | Albany News

Albany News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! · Jul 1, 2026 · 1m

A federal judge has halted the Pentagon’s controversial rule requiring New York Times reporters to be escorted at all times, calling it a First Amendment violation and a win for press freedom. The Times, already in legal battles with the military over access, hailed the ruling as a victory for public accountability, while the Pentagon pushed back, arguing it’s essential for national security. This isn’t the first time Judge Paul Friedman has blocked Pentagon restrictions — previous rulings were paused by an appeals court — but for now, Times reporters can cover the Pentagon without escorts…