A DBUNK subscriber submitted a request to verify claims within an Associated Press article regarding the White House barring AP journalists due to terminology disputes. We investigated to determine whether the claims made in the article accurately reflect the truth.
Claim: The AP was banned solely for using “Gulf of Mexico” instead of “Gulf of America”
Verdict: Misleading. While the AP’s refusal to adopt Trump’s executive order terminology played a role, the White House justified the decision by citing its authority to regulate press access. The article omits key information that other outlets not using “Gulf of America” were not banned, raising doubts about sole retaliation.
Claim: The judge’s ruling was a strong rebuke of the White House
Verdict: Missing Context. The article selectively frames Judge McFadden’s comments as if he decisively condemned the White House’s actions. However, the ruling did not immediately restore AP’s access because it did not meet the legal threshold for irreparable harm. While the judge acknowledged potential viewpoint discrimination, the case remains unsettled.
Claim: The White House is forcing all media organizations to use “Gulf of America”
Verdict: False. No verified evidence suggests all news organizations have been mandated to use the new name. Our independent review found that multiple national and international media outlets, including major networks, continue using “Gulf of Mexico” without restrictions.
What You Need to Know
The Associated Press article gives a one-sided portrayal of the White House’s decision. While press freedom concerns are valid, the lawsuit is still ongoing, and immediate claims of constitutional violations remain legally unproven. Readers should be aware that other media organizations have not been affected in the same way, undermining the argument that “Gulf of America” enforcement is widespread.
Do other news outlets call it the “Gulf of America”?
No. Major news organizations, including Reuters, BBC, and CNN, continue referring to it as the “Gulf of Mexico.” The AP’s article lacks crucial context about industry-wide practices, giving the misleading impression that Trump’s executive order has reshaped media norms.
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Read the full AP article here: AP News
