Epoch Times Reporter Resigns Over Pentagon's Press Rules

The Resignation That Shook the Epoch Times

In a striking turn of events, Andrew Thornebrooke, a national security reporter for the right-leaning Epoch Times, has submitted his resignation following the publication's acceptance of new Pentagon press guidelines. This resignation, made public on October 19, 2025, is far more than a personal decision; it highlights the growing tensions in media integrity and editorial direction.

The New Guidelines and Their Implications

The Pentagon's revised press rules, which aim to tighten control over journalistic access, have spurred debate in the media landscape. Thornebrooke noted his decision stemmed not only from these guidelines but also from editorial mandates that directed staff to refer to antifa—often characterized as a far-left movement—as a terrorist organization.

“I can no longer reconcile my role with the direction the paper has chosen,” Thornebrooke noted in his resignation email, a sentiment that resonates deeply in today's media narratives.

Partisan Press and Editorial Integrity

The strategic pivot at Epoch Times, which has strong ties to the Falun Gong movement and has been known for supporting conservative causes, raises essential questions about the nature of modern journalism. The changing directives, which Thornebrooke described as an abdication of journalistic responsibility, have sparked significant concern among journalists across the spectrum. He accused the paper of promoting partisan content and altering facts to favor certain narratives, particularly regarding the Trump administration.

Context of the Resignation

This resignation follows a series of events that underline the increasing polarization within media organizations. The publication, along with conservative outlets like One America News Network and The Federalist, chose to sign the Pentagon's restrictive press policy, marked by significant pushback from larger entities such as The Washington Post and Fox News. These outlets refused to sign, arguing that compliance would jeopardize First Amendment rights and hinder public information dissemination.

A Media Landscape in Transition

Thornebrooke's exit underscores a broader trend in American journalism where journalists are increasingly grappling with their organizational affiliations and the pressures of delivering unbiased reporting. The fact that he began his tenure under the premise of achieving credible coverage, only to find himself disillusioned, points to an unsettling reality many reporters face today.

The Role of Antifa in Media Narratives

As Thornebrooke pointed out, designating antifa as a terrorist organization disregards the legal parameters that define domestic terrorism in the U.S. Despite numerous conversations regarding the validity of such categorizations, editors within the Epoch Times opted for a dismissive editorial stance. The implications of labeling groups inaccurately not only mislead the public discourse but also impair democratic dialogue.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Press Freedom

The timing of this resignation is particularly crucial as it comes amidst ongoing national debates about press freedom and governmental oversight of journalism. The Pentagon's new guidelines have received mixed reactions, with advocates arguing that they are legitimate security measures while critics see them as tools for suppressing dissent and freedom of expression.

Thornebrooke's actions may well serve as a wake-up call for other journalists. In an era where civic trust in media is fragile, the demand for transparency and editorial integrity could not be more pressing. As our media landscape continues to evolve, the principles that govern journalistic integrity remain foundational—not just for reporters, but for civic society as a whole.

Conclusion

The resignation of Andrew Thornebrooke from Epoch Times serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities confronting contemporary journalism. As the boundaries blur between reporting and opinion, the core of journalistic integrity must persist. We, as consumers of information, have a responsibility to demand clarity and accuracy from our media outlets. How we navigate these challenges, as both journalists and readers, will shape the future of the press in America.