'He’s in trouble': Shock as pro-Trump network refuses to sign controversial policy

Conservative network Newsmax has announced it will not sign the Pentagon’s new press-access policy, joining a growing coalition of news organizations rejecting what they describe as unconstitutional constraints on journalism.

Journalists at The Washington Post, The New York Times, and several other major news organizations have also announced that they will not sign the Defense Department’s new restrictive press policy by Tuesday afternoon’s deadline.

Under the Pentagon’s proposed policy, credentialed reporters would be required to pledge not to solicit or publish any information that has not been explicitly authorized for release — even if unclassified.

In a statement released Monday, Newsmax said, “Newsmax has no plans to sign the letter. We are working in conjunction with other media outlets to resolve the situation. We believe the requirements are unnecessary and onerous and hope that the Pentagon will review the matter further.”

The network’s stand is notable given its generally favorable alignment with the Trump administration.

Meanwhile, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth quote‑tweeted statements from some outlets that announced they would refuse to sign — appending a “waving hand” emoji as a dismissive flourish.

However, the secretary has not reacted the same way to Newsmax’s statement.

President Donald Trump and current administration figures frequently appear on Newsmax platforms.

Newsmax’s CEO, Chris Ruddy, has long had personal and political proximity to Trump and his circle.

The network's Monday statement sparked surprised reactions on social media.

Journalist Mike Rothschild wrote on the social platform X: "When you're too authoritarian for freakin' Newsmax, you are too authoritarian."

Political commentator Preston Steward wrote: "Newsmax is the most recent outlet to decline the new Pentagon press requirements. I’ve lost track but Atlantic, WashPo, NYT and handful of others already said they won’t be signing."

CNN reporter Aaron Blake wrote: "Even Newsmax."

Attorney John Aravosis wrote: "Wow, when a right wing puppet won’t sign onto Trump‘s Maga pledge at the Pentagon, you know he’s in trouble."

Investor Adam Cochran wrote: "Do you know how unhinged and draconian a policy has to be, for even NewsMax to find a backbone?!? Insane!"