Vice President Vance defends White House ban on AP reporters

Vice President J.D. Vance defended the White House's decision to bar the Associated Press from press briefings, claiming it does not constitute a threat to free speech. This ban was implemented after the AP refused to adopt the term 'Gulf of America,' as mandated by former President Trump, leading to a broader controversy over press freedom. Vance engaged in a heated exchange on social media with journalist Mehdi Hasan, who questioned his stance on free speech while highlighting the White House's actions against the AP. In response, Vance dismissed Hasan's concerns, stating that denying a reporter access is different from jailing dissenters. The clash has sparked debate over the implications of the White House's restrictions on press access, with some arguing it contradicts fundamental free speech principles. This incident comes amid Vance's criticisms of European governments for similar perceived threats to free expression.