First Lady Approves Press Credentials for CNN, Politico for UN Event Amid White House Ban

Monterey Salinas, CA, September 22, 2026 —

First Lady Melania Trump has granted press credentials to CNN and Politico for an event taking place in New York, on the occasion of the United Nations General Assembly. This decision stands in contrast to the White House’s policy, under which these same news organizations have been banned from attending events.

The approval for credentials by the First Lady’s office signifies an allowance for reporters from CNN and Politico to cover specific events associated with the First Lady during the UN General Assembly proceedings. The UN General Assembly is an annual event where world leaders convene in New York City.

The White House has previously barred CNN and Politico from participating in press briefings and events held at the executive residence. President Donald Trump has publicly expressed critical views of reporting by both outlets. This discrepancy in access between the First Lady’s events and White House functions highlights a nuanced approach to media engagement concerning the administration.

Details regarding the specific event for which credentials were approved, including its date, location within New York, and the nature of the coverage permitted, were not immediately available. Similarly, the exact criteria used by the First Lady’s office for granting credentials were not disclosed.

The contrasting decisions on press access by the First Lady and the White House underscore the varying protocols that can exist within the same administration regarding media engagement. The UN General Assembly typically draws significant media attention as it serves as a platform for international diplomacy and addresses global issues.

Story summarized from the original created by CNN Newsource on kioncentralcoast.com, see more information here.

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