White House, news groups discuss access to Obama

(AP) White House, news groups discuss access to Obama
WASHINGTON
The White House and news media representatives have agreed to work toward expanding access to President Barack Obama’s public duties to give news photographers a less restricted view of the president at work.

Participants in Tuesday’s meeting said the session did not resolve the coverage issues recently raised by a group of news organizations and media associations, but said they were hopeful the discussion marked progress.

Associated Press Senior Managing Editor Mike Oreskes said media representatives were encouraged by the commitment expressed by White House press secretary Jay Carney. Oreskes said, “The proof will be in the outcome.”

White House Correspondents’ Association President Steve Thomma said journalists asked that White House officials operate with the presumption that they will grant access every time the president does something of public interest.