Terry Moran Transitions to Substack Following ABC News Exit Amid Controversy

Former ABC News correspondent Terry Moran has made headlines with his recent move to Substack after being abruptly cut from the network. His departure came after he faced backlash for criticizing President Donald Trump and advisor Stephen Miller on social media.

In a video shared on X, Moran expressed his enthusiasm for his new venture, stating, “For almost 28 years, I was a reporter and anchor for ABC News and, as you may have heard, I’m not there anymore. I’m here with you on Substack, this amazing space, and I can’t wait to get at it, get at the important work that we all have to do in this time of such trouble for our country.” This declaration marks a significant transition in his career, one that highlights a growing trend among journalists seeking alternative platforms for expression.

Background on Moran’s Departure from ABC News

Moran’s abrupt exit from ABC follows a social media incident that provoked strong reactions. On Sunday, he deleted a post that took aim at both Trump and Miller, prompting ABC News to suspend him initially. The network later confirmed his termination, which occurred just as his contract was set to expire.

In a statement regarding the decision, an ABC News spokesperson indicated, “We are at the end of our agreement with Terry Moran, and based on his recent post – which was a clear violation of ABC News policies – we have made the decision to not renew.” This move underscores the network’s commitment to maintaining a standard of objectivity and professionalism among its journalists.

Moran’s Comments Spark Controversy

The controversy surrounding Moran intensified following a critical remark he made about Stephen Miller in his now-deleted post. He referred to Miller’s role as not one of intelligence, but rather characterized by vitriol. Moran noted, “The thing about Stephen Miller is not that he is the brains behind Trumpism. Yes, he is one of the people who conceptualizes the impulses of the Trumpist movement and translates them into policy. But that’s not what’s interesting about Miller. It’s not brains. It’s bile.” These pointed comments drew ire and were labeled as “unhinged” by White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt.

The Environment for Journalists Today

Moran’s exit illustrates a broader trend in the media landscape where journalists express dissenting views, resulting in significant professional consequences. Platforms like Substack have increasingly attracted former reporters from major networks who wish to voice their opinions without the constraints often imposed by corporate media.

Notable examples include former CNN reporters such as Jim Acosta and Chris Cillizza, who, like Moran, have turned to Substack as a way to engage with audiences directly and maintain editorial independence.

ABC News Staff Reactions

Reactions from his colleagues at ABC News reveal a mix of support for Moran personally and disappointment over his actions. Some staffers expressed shock at the repercussions of his post, stating, “Nobody disagrees with the decision to suspend Moran. Everybody was shocked, everybody was disappointed… this just sucks.” The sentiment reflects the complex realities journalists face in a highly politicized media environment.

Journalists within the network had previously prided themselves on fostering a productive dialogue with the current administration, believing that a working relationship was feasible. They lamented that Moran’s outburst jeopardized not only his credibility but potentially that of the entire organization.

The Moving Forward for Moran

With his re-emergence on Substack, Terry Moran enters a space that offers him freedom from traditional media constraints. The platform allows writers to share in-depth insights and engage with their audiences on various topics unfiltered. As such, it represents a vital opportunity for journalists seeking to reclaim their voices amid corporate media challenges.

Moving forward, it remains to be seen how Moran will navigate this new landscape and what impact his experience at ABC might have on his writing. His decision to transition may resonate with many journalists who feel similarly constrained yet eager to express their perspectives on contemporary issues.

Implications for the Future of Journalism

This incident raises questions about the future of journalism in a rapidly changing media landscape where individual voices struggle for agency against institutional values. As more journalists explore alternative platforms like Substack, the dynamics within corporate media may shift, prompting discussions about accountability, freedom of expression, and the role of personal opinion in reporting.

Indeed, with an increasing number of journalists leaving traditional news outlets for the perceived freedom of platforms like Substack, the industry may need to adapt to this new wave of independent reporting. As audiences seek more authentic voices, these shifts may redefine media consumption in a post-corporate era.

In this landscape, the experiences of journalists such as Terry Moran not only serve as cautionary tales but also as testaments to the evolving nature of media and the enduring importance of accountability.

Fox News’ Joseph Wulfsohn and Brian Flood contributed to this report.