UPDATE: A significant shake-up in journalism occurred as national security reporter Andrew Thornebrooke resigned from right-wing outlet The Epoch Times in protest of new Pentagon press access guidelines. This urgent development unfolded on Friday, October 20, 2023, when The Epoch Times became one of only three U.S.-based media organizations to agree to the controversial restrictions imposed by Pete Hegseth’s Department of Defense.
Thornebrooke expressed deep concern over the publication’s decision to “abdicate our responsibility as journalists in favor of merely repeating state narratives.” In his resignation letter, he criticized the outlet’s increasing tendency to promote partisan content, publish false information, and manipulate reporting to align with specific viewpoints.
“I can no longer reconcile my role with the direction the paper has chosen,” Thornebrooke stated. This stark departure highlights a growing tension within the media as numerous journalists grapple with ethical dilemmas related to press freedom.
In a swift response, Jasper Fakkert, editor-in-chief of The Epoch Times, defended the publication’s decision, asserting that the new Pentagon guidelines do not hinder their reporting capabilities.
The implications of this situation are profound. Reports indicate that between 40 and 50 journalists have left the Pentagon press corps in protest, refusing to comply with the guidelines that were due by Wednesday at 4 p.m.. This mass exodus underscores a significant discontent among journalists regarding government restrictions on press access.
As this story develops, the potential ramifications for journalistic integrity and press freedoms in the U.S. remain critical. The Daily Beast has reached out to the Pentagon for further comment on this unfolding situation.
This story is not just about one reporter’s resignation; it reflects a broader concern about the future of journalism in an era where state narratives increasingly dominate media coverage. The fallout from this incident is likely to resonate throughout the industry, prompting discussions about accountability and the role of media in a democracy.
Stay tuned for more updates as this situation evolves.
