CNN has rejected multiple requests from the White House Correspondents' Association (WHCA) to allow a pool reporter inside the studio during the first presidential debate between President Biden and former President Trump. WHCA President Kelly O'Donnell emphasized the importance of having a pool reporter to provide independent observation and context beyond the television production. Despite support from both the Biden and Trump campaigns, CNN has only permitted one print reporter to enter the studio during a commercial break, which the WHCA finds insufficient. The debate, held without an audience, involves strict format rules including muted microphones. CNN will provide a television feed and access for still photographers but remains firm on its decision to limit press access inside the venue.