Sen. John Barrasso downplayed concerns on Sunday that President Donald Trump violated the First Amendment by banning reporters from Politico, MS NOW and CNN from covering the White House. When asked directly whether the ban was unconstitutional, Barrasso avoided saying yes and instead repeated that the press has an obligation to report fairly. He argued that Trump had been banned from social media platforms in the past without similar outrage and said the issue would not affect Republicans in the upcoming midterms. Trump announced the ban Friday, accusing the outlets of publishing fake news, and reporters from all three organizations said their credentials were revoked when they tried to enter the White House on Saturday. Press freedom groups and several lawmakers strongly disagreed with Barrasso’s stance. CNN, Politico and MS NOW said the ban was an illegal attack on their rights, and the White House Correspondents’ Association said the move clearly violates constitutional protections for journalists. Legal experts interviewed on air said the ban would not hold up in court. Sen. Cory Booker said the decision “clearly” violates the First Amendment and shows the president has no regard for press freedom. Despite the ban, the affected outlets said they will continue covering the administration and will fight any attempt to restrict their access.