In a significant departure from decades of precedent, the White House will now assume control over assigning seats in the James S. Brady Press Briefing Room—authority that has historically rested with the White House Correspondents’ Association (WHCA). Axios first reported the policy shift on Sunday, citing senior administration officials.
The change is part of a broader restructuring of how the White House manages its press engagement strategy.
According to a senior official, the communications team has implemented a “fundamental restructuring of the briefing room, based on metrics more reflective of how media is consumed today.” This includes placing greater emphasis on digital platforms and emerging media formats.
Under the new plan, seat assignments will be determined using a blend of outlet reach, content engagement, and frequency of White House coverage.
The updated roster will feature a mix of print, television, digital media, and social media influencers. Outlets such as The Daily Wire, Axios, Semafor, and various online personalities are expected to be among those gaining visibility in the room.
Officials insist the goal is not to reward favorable coverage but to reflect shifts in how Americans access news. “The goal isn’t merely favorable coverage,” one official told Axios. “It’s truly an honest look at consumption... The ability to cover the White House is part of the metrics.”
The move signals a strategic pivot away from legacy media institutions that have traditionally occupied front-row seats and enjoyed regular access to senior administration officials. Those outlets, including major newspapers and networks, may now see their influence diminished within the press corps hierarchy.
“We want to balance disruption with responsibility,” the official stated.
The WHCA has not yet issued a formal response. However, the decision raises questions about the future of press access norms, the role of traditional gatekeepers in Washington journalism, and the influence of digital-first outlets on White House coverage.
The restructuring is expected to take effect in the coming weeks.