The accreditation of CBC/Radio-Canada journalists for the Republican Party’s upcoming midterm convention has been revoked by the party. Chuck Thompson, CBC’s head of public affairs, confirmed the decision made by the Republican National Committee (RNC) on Monday. This means that CBC/Radio-Canada journalists will not be provided accreditation to cover the convention scheduled in Dallas, Texas, on September 9 and 10. Thompson mentioned in a written statement that CBC is currently reviewing the RNC’s decision, expressing disappointment and hoping for a reconsideration.
Despite multiple emailed requests for comment, convention organizers did not respond to inquiries from CBC News on Monday evening. The White House directed CBC’s questions to the RNC, but attempts to reach the committee by phone were unsuccessful. The withdrawal of accreditation occurs at a time when tensions between Canada and the United States are escalating due to recent trade disputes and contentious rhetoric from leaders on both sides of the border.
The decision to revoke accreditation follows criticisms by Republican lawmakers and Trump administration officials of CBC. This backlash was triggered by a leaked internal memo from CBC that garnered international attention. The memo addressed the use of terms like “terrorism” in relation to the 9/11 attacks, drawing condemnation ahead of the upcoming 25th-anniversary commemoration. In response to the controversy, CBC’s senior director of journalistic standards and public trust, Basem Boshra, announced adjustments to the language guidance to clarify that direct attribution is not mandatory when describing the events of 9/11 as terrorism. This adjustment aims to enhance clarity and public comprehension.
The Republican Party’s decision to revoke CBC/Radio-Canada’s accreditation for their upcoming convention has stirred controversy amid escalating tensions between Canada and the United States. The move follows criticisms of CBC by Republican lawmakers and Trump administration officials regarding the broadcaster’s language guidance on the 9/11 attacks. CBC has responded by modifying its language policy to address concerns raised by the public.