New Leadership at CBS News
Bari Weiss, co-founder of Free Press, is set to lead a new discussion show that will focus on pressing current issues, as reported by The Wall Street Journal on Monday.
Paramount revealed its plan to acquire Free Press, appointing Weiss as the editor-in-chief of CBS News. During discussions, Weiss and Paramount’s CEO, David Ellison, emphasized a commitment to “reality-reflecting news.” They aim to understand rather than demonize, which is perhaps a shift in tone for some outlets.
A tweet from Free Press confirmed Weiss’s new role at Paramount. Meanwhile, New York Times journalist Michael Grimbaum shared a letter from Weiss addressing CBS News employees. In her message, she reiterated a focus on core journalistic values and promised to uphold balanced coverage of both American political parties.
Ellison highlighted his commitment to ensuring that CBS News is fair and trustworthy. He noted that Weiss will report directly to him as they work together with the CBS team to provide reliable news that resonates with the audience’s demand for balanced reporting.
Despite the acquisition, CBS News stated that Free Press would maintain its independence and continue to produce subscriber-based content. In anticipation of Weiss’s appointment, several left-leaning journalists expressed their displeasure on social media, citing her pro-Israel views and perceived ideological inconsistencies.
Cenk Uygur from The Young Turks remarked on social media that Weiss’s appointment renders CBS News ineffective. As of now, CBS News and Paramount have not responded to inquiries regarding this significant shift in leadership.
