The Pentagon press corps, once comprised of established journalists from reputable news organizations, has undergone significant changes. Following the introduction of a 21-page document imposing restrictions on journalistic activities, nearly all credentialed reporters surrendered their press passes in October 2025. This document required news organizations to refrain from obtaining unauthorized material, effectively limiting reporting to officially provided information and restricting access to certain areas of the Pentagon.

In the wake of this walkout, the Pentagon granted press passes to numerous rightwing media figures and organizations that accepted the new terms. Notable among these are Laura Loomer, a controversial figure known for her far-right views, and Mike Lindell, CEO of MyPillow, who operates LindellTV, a platform that promotes conspiracy theories. The new composition of the press corps raises questions about the ability of these media figures to critically scrutinize the Pentagon, especially during a time of heightened scrutiny due to various controversies.

An independent report from the Pentagon's office of inspector general highlighted a serious breach of operational security by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who used the chat app Signal to discuss sensitive information regarding a military operation. This incident has led to calls for Hegseth's resignation. Additionally, the Pentagon faces ongoing scrutiny over a double strike on an alleged drug boat in the Caribbean.

Experts have expressed concern over the implications of the Pentagon's new press policy. Carole-Anne Morris, a journalism professor, criticized the limited access to information, suggesting that the new press corps is ill-equipped to hold the government accountable. The New York Times has filed a lawsuit against the Pentagon, arguing that the restrictions violate the First Amendment rights of journalists to gather information and ask questions of government officials.

Gregg Leslie, executive director of the First Amendment Clinic at Arizona State University, emphasized that any restrictions on journalistic independence are fundamentally unacceptable. In response to the criticism, the Pentagon released a report highlighting the activities of the new press corps, which includes over 70 independent journalists and social media influencers. Pentagon officials assert that this new media approach is better suited to inform a wider audience about the department's activities.