A federal court judge has rejected an urgent plea to reinstate access for Associated Press (AP) journalists and photographers to White House events on Monday. This decision is pending a more comprehensive briefing and another hearing before a final ruling is made.

The Associated Press had filed a lawsuit against three Trump administration officials last week. The accused include Susie Wiles, the White House Chief of Staff, Taylor Budowich, the Deputy Chief of Staff, and press secretary Karoline Leavitt. The AP has alleged that their reporters have been unjustly barred as a repercussion for the news service’s refusal to alter its terminology. This stems from President Trump’s executive order in January to rename the Gulf of Mexico as the “Gulf of America”.

Judge Trevor McFadden, a Trump-appointed federal judge, conveyed that an expedited briefing schedule is necessary, and further briefs will be needed before he could make a final decision on the matter.

Charles Tobin, AP’s attorney, argued that the ban has severely hindered the news service’s ability to report first-hand news about the Trump administration. He further stated that this has tarnished the company’s reputation among its subscribers and hampered its journalists’ ability to cover the President accurately.

Tobin called for a complete reinstatement of the Associated Press’s access to the White House press pool and greater access to White House press events, including the ability to travel with the President.

On the other hand, a representative for the Trump administration argued that the “content of a journalist’s speech” could be a factor in deciding whether to grant access. They also suggested that the President has the power to deny access to any media outlet.

Another hearing in the case is scheduled for March 20, where both parties will argue on AP’s motion for a preliminary injunction.

Scott MacFarlane assisted in compiling this report.