More than 7,400 people, many of whom are journalists representing independent media and other outlets from across the world, requested access to White House press briefings after rules were loosened, a White House official told The Epoch Times by email Jan. 29.
Among those who applied for credentials, many took to social media to announce their submissions.
Others who said they applied include conservative analyst Chester Tam, investigative reporter James O’Keefe, and independent reporter Alex Berenson.
“Seems you want me asking questions of the White House,” Berenson wrote to his email subscribers. He said he applied for credentials after conducting a poll with supporters the day prior. “And by a 5-1 margin you want me in.” he said.
“It is a priority of this White House to honor the First Amendment,” she said. “And as the youngest press secretary in history thanks to President Trump, I take great pride in opening up this room to new media voices to share the president’s message with as many Americans as possible.”
One seat that was previously used for staff will now provide an upfront opportunity for so-called “new media” that includes podcasters, bloggers, social media influencers, and less represented media, according to Leavitt.
She said millions of Americans no longer rely on traditional media sources and are turning to a new style of news content producers.
“The Trump White House will speak to all media outlets and personalities, not just the legacy media who are seated in this room,” Leavitt said.
Thousands heeded the call and are now awaiting a response. It is unknown how the requests will be handled or how many new media personalities will have their requests granted.
The move is a sharp change from how other administrations have handled the makeup of the press room.
Trump has taken on the media since this 2016 campaign for office, making the phrase “fake news” ubiquitous and singling out journalists and outlets that he believes cover topics unfairly.
