The McCain campaign tried to ban most of the traveling press from Sarah Palin's meetings with foreign leaders in New York today. Initially, the campaign announced that journalists who communicate primarily with words would banned from the event. Only still photogs and TV crews would be allowed in.

In an uncharacteristic display of resolve, CNN refused to cover the event at all unless the campaign allowed a producer to accompany the camera crew. 

Guess who blinked:

Earlier today the traveling press was informed that reporters would be banned from covering her meeting today in New York with world leaders; only photographers and a TV crew were to be allowed in. The move appeared designed to ensure that Palin, who has faced only two interviews since becoming Veep (well, only one real one; the other was with Fox), would face no questions.

CNN decided to yank its crew in protest, a major blow to the McCain campaign's efforts to get TV coverage of this highly stage-managed moment. The Associated Press also apparently objected, as did other networks.

According to The New York Times, the campaign subsequently relented and decided to let in a producer. But that left print reporters out in the cold. [Greg Sargent, TPM]

Reporters are routinely allowed to accompany photographers for media opportunities before highly profile meetings, like Palin's confab today with President Hamid Karzai of Afghanistan. Sometimes reporters are even allowed to ask questions. This time around the reporters were allowed in, but escorted out after 40 seconds. 

I hope this episode emboldens the media to demand more access. It's part of their duty to the public to advocate for meaningful access to candidates and elected officials, not just during elections, but all the time.

It's outrageous that Palin has only given two major interviews since she accepted the vp nomination. This is getting ridiculous. The McCain campaign knows she's not ready for primetime. Choosing a running mate who can't handle herself in a press conference is not putting country first.