CBS News has been synonymous with journalistic integrity and groundbreaking innovation for decades. Yet the ongoing transformation of Table Forward — following the appointment of Bari Weiss to its editor-in-chief — has raised criticism. Weiss’s rise to this prominent position marks a significant departure from the network’s storied history, which includes breaking down racial barriers and introducing groundbreaking programming. Her appointment raises questions about the future direction of CBS News and its commitment to core journalistic values.
For CBS News in particular, the broadcast is a historical way station on the road to progressive media change. In the 1960s, Ed Sullivan used his Sunday night show to highlight outstanding Black entertainers, helping to confront and dismantle racial exclusion in America. This legacy solidified the notion of CBS as a cultural leader, which gained CBS the nickname “the Tiffany Network.” Walter Cronkite personified the network’s dedication to journalism with an excellence that put the “T” in “MSNBC.” In doing so, he became known as “the most trusted man in America.”
CBS News created the legendary documentary program, “60 Minutes.” This iconic series raised the bar for all investigative journalism and left rushing-in-their-footsteps networks wishing they could do what it did. In recent years, CBS has been plagued by high-profile missteps that have undermined the network’s credibility. You’ve reached an agreement to pay Donald Trump $16 million to not set up a future presidential library there. Supporters of the prohibition critics call this move bowing to political pressure.
Weiss’s appointment is viewed by many as the latest adoption of this negative trend. Shortly after her hiring, the longtime executive producer of “60 Minutes” resigned in protest, warning that it posed a threat to editorial independence. This resignation further exacerbates worries about the network’s ability to maintain its commitment to unbiased reporting amid shifting corporate interests.
In a second big move, Weiss will begin reporting directly to the senior vice president of CBS News. This move makes him no longer be a direct report to the president of CBS News. Now media analysts are shaking their heads in disbelief over this shocking decision. They are concerned it could begin to drive the network’s editorial coverage away from independent, objective journalistic standards.
The appointment comes as CBS News’ newscast ratings personnel still struggle to catch up with their rivals. Critics say Weiss’s presence might boomerang. Instead of rekindling Americans’ enthusiasm for a renewed CBS news division, her influence might push away loyal viewers who cherish objective reporting.
Margaret Sullivan is media columnist for The Guardian, writing on the intersection of media, politics and culture. She has been a vocal critic of CBS’s course ever since Trump was elected. She described the action as a “shameful path.” This quote is a symptom of a burgeoning fear amongst the journalism community about what Weiss’s reign means.
Media expert Richard Tofel was wary about the wisdom of Weiss’s hiring. He argued that to place her in charge of a television news division would be the equivalent of appointing people like William F. Buckley or Victor Navasky in those earlier years. Most people would find such a proposal unimaginable due to their contentious legacies.
Weiss’s ascent has not gone unnoticed, with Jessica Testa highlighting her unconventional rise in journalism by stating she “has ascended the mountain of journalism on a slingshot.” This metaphor captures the rapid nature of Weiss’s career but underscores the apprehension surrounding her ability to lead a venerable institution like CBS News.
In addition to her editorial responsibilities, Weiss’s affiliation with Free Press—a publication that was acquired by Paramount, CBS News’ parent company for $150 million—further complicates her position. That’s why critics say this latest acquisition dovetails perfectly with a wider elite plan to pervert public perception—and trust—in news.
Looking ahead, CBS News has announced plans to maintain its editorial independence by not editing taped interviews with political figures on its Sunday morning program “Face the Nation.” This decision is a step toward providing an assurance that journalistic standards will be protected despite rising threats from outside forces.