The US Justice Department has defended President Donald Trump’s decision to bar CNN, Politico and MS NOW from White House grounds, arguing that the action is lawful under the First Amendment. The three outlets have sued Trump and senior aides, alleging violations of their constitutional rights, while a federal judge is due to hear their request for a temporary restraining order on Wednesday.

The DOJ says the organisations breached expected standards of professionalism and decorum, including by publishing sensitive or classified information about the construction of Trump’s proposed ballroom. The dispute has prompted solidarity from the five major television networks’ White House pool, which suspended coverage, while other media organisations have staged separate protests; Trump has indicated he expects an adverse ruling and plans to appeal.