Over 40 Journalists Walk Out of Pentagon Amid Widespread Rejection of New Press Rules

Washington D.C. – Dozens of journalists, estimated between 40 and 50, staged a mass walkout from the Pentagon on October 15, 2025, refusing to comply with new, highly restrictive press policies implemented by Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth. The unprecedented move saw reporters from major news organizations hand in their credentials rather than accept rules critics describe as an assault on press freedom and independent journalism.

The new regulations, outlined by Secretary Hegseth, mandate that journalists sign an agreement pledging to publish only information "explicitly authorized" by the Defense Department. They also impose strict limitations on reporters' movement within the Pentagon and threaten the revocation of credentials for "soliciting" unauthorized information. These measures follow earlier restrictions by Hegseth, including limiting press briefings and banning unescorted access to many areas of the building.

Major news outlets, including The New York Times, NBC News, CNN, The Associated Press, Reuters, Politico, The Washington Post, and even Fox News—Hegseth's former employer—issued joint statements rejecting the policy. Conservative commentator Bill O’Reilly sharply criticized the regulations, stating, > "Are you kidding me? This craziness is not gonna hold." Only One America News (OAN) has reportedly agreed to the new terms.

Secretary Hegseth has defended the rules as "common sense" steps necessary for "preventing leaks that damage operational security and national security." However, media associations and First Amendment advocates argue the policy transforms journalists into "state functionaries" and undermines the public's right to know. NPR reporter Tom Bowman, who has covered the Pentagon for decades, emphasized, "It’s called journalism. Finding out what’s really going on behind the scenes and not accepting wholesale what any government or administration says.”

The widespread rejection and walkout signify a major confrontation between the Pentagon and the press. Journalists have vowed to continue covering the U.S. military through alternative means, including leaks and Freedom of Information Act requests. The incident raises significant concerns about transparency and the future of independent reporting on national security matters.