I can see what you’re saying, but what due process is involved? Accosterdoesnt work for the WH. A press press is not a contract, is it? What due process is the judge hanginger his hat on?
From what I understand from reading it, is that the judge had a problem with the WH just arbitrarily revoking credentials without any definition of what violations have occurred. The POTUS stating that he could, for any reason, take any reporters credential probably did not help. The rules of decorum that will follow will serve to define what is expected in order for the press corps to retain their privilege. At least this is how I see it.
What many people seem to be having a hard time understanding are that privileges, rights, ownership, etc can accrue through usage and (implied) acceptance of said claim(s). (The legal term is adverse possession.) In other words, a right becomes 'property' that can be transferred, sold, assigned, etc.
To summarize, it has *value*. Now, does anyone ever notice the long legal contract on the back of a parking or theater stub? What it specifically says is that the user only has a right to the specific conditions of usage ie performance/parking time, and that no other common law rights are created.
This ruling is in no way a victory for CNN; rather it's a major loss for the MSM. Because know Trump can revoke *everyone's* pass, establish a firm set of guidelines, rules and procedures governing codes of conduct, and then re-issue passes under those stipulated terms and conditions. Furthermore, there is nothing stopping Trump from setting up an application process where any citizen can petition for a pass.
If that comes to fruition, and if seating is limited to 50 people or so, guess what happens when there are 10,000 requests? Lottery time. CNN/Acosta totally and completely screwed a cozy insider game for everyone in the MSM. The 5A ruling is a disaster for them.