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Former CBS News anchor Dan Rather voiced strong criticism regarding CBS News’ appointment of journalist Bari Weiss as editor-in-chief and the acquisition of her independent news platform, The Free Press. His comments were shared on his Substack page, where he expressed concerns about potential shifts in the network’s editorial direction.
At 93 years old, Rather highlighted that the hiring of Weiss, known for her conservative perspectives, coupled with CBS being under the leadership of billionaire David Ellison, suggests a potential alignment with the political agenda associated with Donald Trump.
Rather articulated a grim outlook: “The American people will pay the price for this move, as will the journalists of CBS News who can no longer credibly serve as watchdogs because the ones they are meant to hold to account are signing their paychecks and hobnobbing with the president.” This statement emphasizes his belief that journalistic integrity may be jeopardized by corporate interests.
Rather’s warning struck a chord as he labeled the day as a dark one for CBS News.
Paramount’s Strategic Move
The decision to appoint Weiss came following CBS’ parent company, Paramount, completing the acquisition of The Free Press for $150 million. This significant change has ignited backlash among liberal journalists and media figures alike, who feel that Weiss has a history of challenging diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, along with vocal support for Israel.
Adding to the tension, Rather questioned Weiss’ background in journalism, stating, “The former opinion writer for The Wall Street Journal and The New York Times is not a reporter. She has never worked in television news and she has never led a staff larger than a few dozen.” He pointed out that her ascent to such a prominent role within CBS was orchestrated by David Ellison, emphasizing that doesn’t report to the president of CBS News but directly to Ellison.
Controversy Surrounding Weiss’ Approach
Weiss has stated her intention to address illiberalism across the political spectrum during her tenure. Rather responded critically, pointing out the risks of promoting a narrative of both sides having equal weight in discussions where one side is linked with a figure like Trump.
Rather observed, “While one must keep an open mind, it is hard to do so when such a statement portends a push for ‘bothsidesism’ and arguments reliant on false equivalences.” He underscored that in contemporary politics, there is a significant disparity between the extremes, especially given that one is represented by a leader who frequently disseminates falsehoods.
The Broader Implications of Leadership Changes
Weiss’ hiring comes on the heels of the merger between Paramount and Skydance, which placed Ellison at the helm of the newly formed entity. The ties between Ellison and Trump are noteworthy, as they indicate potential influence in CBS’ reporting and content choices. Ellison’s father, Larry, is a billionaire tech mogul known for his pro-Israel stance, further complicating the political landscape surrounding the network.
Rather continued his critique, stating that these developments signify that CBS may no longer operate independently, but rather under the influence of a billionaire with a partisan agenda. He warned that any content that contradicts Trump’s narrative might face censorship or alteration.
In his contemplative conclusion, Rather highlighted the historical significance of CBS News and the foreboding changes, stating, “It is a dark day in the halls of CBS News, where the portraits of television news pioneers once hung—Cronkite, Murrow, Sevareid, Collingwood. They were respected journalists who rendered television a trusted source of information. Whom and what are we to believe today?”
Reflecting on Journalistic Integrity
As CBS navigates these challenging changes, the implications for its news division remain uncertain. Rather’s commentary reflects broader concerns about media integrity in an age where corporate interests can increasingly dictate editorial decisions.
Following his departure from CBS in 2006, after a controversial story about then-President George W. Bush, Rather has maintained a critical eye on the evolving landscape of journalism.
In response to this commentary, CBS News opted not to provide a public statement. Fox News Digital has also reached out to Paramount for additional context.
