During his first term, Trump’s administration made waves by barring outlets it deemed unfavorable—such as The New York Times, CNN, and BBC—from select off-camera briefings. More recently, Trump’s campaign barred reporters from Politico, Axios, and Puck News from attending its election watch event at Mar-a-Lago.

At least two executives from MAGA-aligned media platforms—one focused on streaming, the other on text—confirmed to Axios their plans to apply for White House press credentials under the new administration.

The current White House briefing room accommodates 49 reporters, with seating arrangements largely controlled by the White House Correspondents’ Association (WHCA). Expanding access for pro-Trump outlets, such as Steve Bannon’s War Room, could result in reduced access for legacy media outlets.

While seating assignments typically shift modestly with each new administration, the most prominent front-row seats have traditionally been reserved for major TV networks that regularly broadcast clips from the briefing room. The WHCA oversees seating, but press credentials are determined by the White House itself, meaning some credentialed outlets might not receive a dedicated seat.