Macron's office closes press room, moves reporters off-site
FILE - In this Jan. 30 2018 file photo, French President Emmanuel Macron delivers his New Year speech to civil servants and constitutional bodies at the Elysee Palace in Paris. Macron's office is closing the press room inside the presidential palace, amid broader efforts by the French leader to control his public image. Advisers for Macron announced Wednesday Feb.14, 2018 that journalists will be moved to a new site off the territory of the presidential Elysee Palace with less access to presidential activity. (Philippe Wojazer/Pool Photo via AP, File)
PARIS — French President Emmanuel Macron's office is closing the press room inside the presidential palace amid broader efforts by the French leader to control his public image.
Advisers for Macron announced yesterday that journalists will be moved to a new site out of the presidential Elysee Palace with less access to presidential activity.
Government spokesman Benjamin Griveaux insisted the move was for "operational" reasons and not an effort to keep journalists at arms' length.
One adviser, however, said the move aims to end "privileges" for journalists, who've had a press room in the Elysee for more than 40 years under presidents across the political spectrum. The adviser was not authorized to be publicly named.
Macron's office has increasingly used Facebook and YouTube to spread his message instead of publicly answering media questions.
- Latest
- Trending
