The White House launched its Trump TV channel, a 24/7 live stream available on YouTube and its mobile application, amid growing tensions with major news outlets. White House spokesperson Kaelan Dorr announced the channel on 22/9, stating its purpose is to provide "a 24/7 livestream of the administration's best content, uncensored."

This launch followed President Trump's decision to ban reporters from three major US media organizations: CNN, MS NOW, and Politico, from covering the White House. He accused them of "unfair reporting" regarding his presidency.

The White House described Trump TV as a platform that will "operate 24/7, providing real-time updates, compiling past highlights, statements, and the latest from the administration in one place." It aims to directly deliver information to the public, circumventing traditional media filters. Dorr further explained that Trump TV was created because "the press, in some instances, has reported inaccurately or failed to cover many of the administration's unprecedented achievements for the benefit of all Americans."

Promotional image on Trump TV. Screenshot YouTube/The White House

In response to the ban, the three affected organizations filed lawsuits to regain access, citing First Amendment protections for press freedom. Subsequently, five other major US television networks, including ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox News, and CNN, withdrew from the White House press pool in solidarity.

This collective withdrawal meant that no television crew accompanied President Trump to New York on 22/9 when he attended the United Nations General Assembly conference.

Trump TV began its programming on 21/9. Its initial broadcasts included President Trump's 4/7 speech at Mount Rushmore. On 22/9, the channel re-aired his speech from the World Economic Forum.

US President Donald Trump speaks at the United Nations General Assembly on 22/9 in New York. Photo: AP

While the White House frequently live-streams presidential speeches and press briefings, it remains unclear if Trump TV will expand its content beyond existing footage or if the administration plans to hire additional staff to operate the channel.

By Hong Hanh. Sources: USA Today, The Hill.