Acosta's press card revoked: WHCA urges reversal of 'weak and misguided' action

After the White House announced the suspension of CNN journalist Jim Acosta's press card, the White House Correspondents' Association (WHCA) while objecting the same has urged the concerned authorities to reverse the "weak and misguided action."

The WHCA, in a statement released shortly after the suspension of CNN's White House Chief Correspondent's press card, appealed to those doubting that Acosta's reaction was disproportionate to the perceived offense to view the video of the events.

"The White House Correspondents' Association strongly objects to the Trump Administration's decision to use US Secret Service security credentials as a tool to punish a reporter with whom it has a difficult relationship. Revoking access to the White House complex is a reaction out of line to the purported offense and is unacceptable. Journalists may use a range of approaches to carry out their jobs and the WHCA does not police the tone or frequency of the questions its members ask of powerful senior government officials, including the President. Such interactions, however uncomfortable they may appear to be, help define the strength of our national institutions," the statement read.

A presser called by United States President Donald Trump took a turn for the worse when an argument ensued between Trump and Acosta, who repeatedly tried to ask the US President about Russian investigation.

The US President then demanded a White House aide to remove the reporter's microphone, as the journalist persisted in his attempt to ask the question to Trump.

"On the Russia investigation, are you concerned that you may...?" Acosta asked before Trump interrupted him and said, "I am not concerned about anything with the Russia investigation because it is a hoax."

In the wake of this, Press Secretary Sarah Sanders announced the White House's decision to revoke Acosta's press card, a move which has been criticised by many.

Sanders said Acosta's press card would remain suspended until further notice on account of the scribe's "unacceptable" conduct. "We will never tolerate a reporter placing his hands on a young woman just trying to do her job as a White House intern. This conduct is absolutely unacceptable. It is also completely disrespectful to the reporter's colleagues not to allow them an opportunity to ask a question," she added.