Joint Statement on Latest Push for Filming in the Senate Wing of the U.S. Capitol

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE — TUESDAY, SEPT. 15, 2026

Yesterday, multiple reporters requested to film a brief statement delivered by Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY) upon his return to the U.S. Senate, but were denied the opportunity to film by staffers for the Senate Rules Committee.

Unfortunately, in the Senate Wing of the U.S. Capitol, recording video requires prior permission, though, no such prohibition exists for recording audio or taking still photographs.

Earlier this year, on July 29, the Executive Committee of the Congressional Radio-TV Gallery (RTCA) and the Standing Committee of Correspondents of the Congressional Daily Press Gallery unanimously voted to send a joint letter to bipartisan Congressional leaders, including Senator McConnell, who chairs the Senate Rules Committee, urging them to modernize press access by allowing filming in the Senate Wing and the use of electronic devices in the Senate Chamber.

Congressional Leadership has not responded to that request.

The RTCA and the Standing Committee of Correspondents will continue to push for our First Amendment rights and for expanded access for credentialed press on Capitol Hill.

Please see our joint letter to Senate Leadership, dated July 29th, 2026, below in its entirety: