CBS News is experiencing internal tension as editor in chief Bari Weiss applies heightened editorial scrutiny to a stalled segment by Anderson Cooper on “60 Minutes.” This segment investigates the Trump administration’s controversial decision to accept refugees from South Africa amidst claims of a “white genocide.”
Sources indicate that Weiss’s involvement has been unusually intense, frustrating seasoned producer Michael Gavshon and others within the newsroom. Traditionally, “60 Minutes” has enjoyed significant editorial independence, but Weiss’s hands-on approach and her participation in segment screenings represent a shift from this norm.
Current CBS News president Tom Cibrowski has also attended these screenings, an unusual practice that began following past executive producer Bill Owens’ departure. While Weiss has attended only one screening of Cooper’s segment, it remains uncertain when—or if—it will air, as it has yet to complete legal vetting.
Weiss’s recent actions include withdrawing another “60 Minutes” report by Sharyn Alfonsi focused on conditions in El Salvador’s CECOT prison, which led to allegations of political interference and internal dissent. Despite her controversial decision to pull Alfonsi’s segment, no public announcement was made regarding Cooper’s story prior to delays.
Amidst ongoing unrest, many CBS News employees express concerns about low morale, confusion over editorial standards, and what they perceive as political influence affecting coverage of the Trump administration. Meanwhile, Weiss, appointed in October despite a lack of broadcast journalism experience, aims to reshape CBS News’s editorial culture in an effort to restore public trust in legacy news organizations.
Why this story matters
- The evolving editorial practices at CBS News could signal broader shifts in journalistic standards and independence.
Key takeaway
- Bari Weiss’s involvement in “60 Minutes” segments raises questions about editorial autonomy and potential political influence within CBS News.
Opposing viewpoint
- Supporters argue that Weiss’s leadership is necessary for revitalizing journalism and restoring public trust in CBS News.
