Recently, many major news organizations walked out of the Pentagon and gave up their press passes. This has been a result of a new rule that entails that journalists must get approval for their reporting. The rule controls reporters involved in the Pentagon on what they can report on or investigate.

Many reporters have refused to cooperate with this rule, in the belief that it prevents them from doing their jobs effectively.  The Pentagon claims the rule is “common sense” and is intended to protect national security and prevent possible leaks.

 Since the walkouts, news organizations that were formerly working with the Pentagon have lost access to Pentagon officials. Now, the Pentagon is working with a new group who have no problem with this new enforcement.  Critics have said that this change reduces transparency within the  Department of Defense and could make it harder for the public to stay informed on key issues. 

Ultimately, this policy has caused a lot of controversy within the Pentagon, as many reporters say there will be fewer independent voices covering the department.