US opens antitrust probe into TV networks halting Trump coverage

{"

Sherman Act and Antitrust Laws":"The Sherman Act, a federal antitrust law, prohibits group boycotts among commercial competitors. The Justice Department is investigating whether the TV networks violated this act by their decision to halt coverage of President Trump.","

Press Access and White House Coverage":"The TV networks, including ABC, CBS, CNN, NBC, and Fox News, form a primary White House television pool. They cover the president, share costs, and provide coverage to outlets around the country. The networks suspended coverage after the administration barred CNN, MS NOW, and Politico from the White House.","

Legal and Financial Pressures":"The investigation puts legal and potentially financial pressure on the media to continue coverage of the president, even when they disagree with how the White House handles them. The White House reinstated credentials on September 24, but disputes over access to specific events and pool assignments continued."}