Klein’s access was restricted one day after President Donald Trump said he was “banning” CNN, MS NOW and Politico from the White House.
The incident raises immediate questions about whether the administration is formally restricting reporters from specific outlets or taking broader action against their organizations.
White House press access is traditionally governed by established credentials and pool arrangements, making the reported seizure of Klein’s pass an unusual development.
CNN has not publicly detailed the circumstances surrounding the incident, including who ordered the pass to be taken or how long the restriction may remain in effect.
The dispute comes amid heightened tensions between Trump and news organizations that have frequently scrutinized his policies and public statements. Any sustained limits on access could prompt challenges from press-freedom advocates and renewed debate over the government’s obligations to provide journalists with access to public officials.