CNN’s New Policy Ignites Furor Among Anchors
CNN anchor Jake Tapper is reportedly upset over a recent company policy that significantly limits how on-air talent can promote their books.
Tapper, who hosts “The Read” and co-anchors “State of the Union,” has expressed dissatisfaction with a directive from CNN chief Mark Thompson. This directive restricts anchors from promoting books after their publication date, as stated by one network journalist to Breaker Media.
Having authored eight books, Tapper recently co-wrote a bestseller concerning President Joe Biden’s decline and his questionable reelection bid. His heavy use of CNN’s platform to promote this title sparked internal conversations among colleagues, some of whom felt it was turning the network into a “rolling infomercial,” according to sources.
On February 4, CNN updated its guidelines, which were reportedly a direct response to Tapper’s on-air promotions.
The new policy emphasizes that “news and advertising should not be confused,” even when the content is from a prominent CNN journalist. Anchors can mention a book on its release date as part of a journalism segment, but they are prohibited from discussing it afterward.
Additionally, the guidelines ban promoting personal sales through websites, QR codes, or links. CNN writers must also consult with the executive team for approval of any related plans using the CNN platform.
All promotions linked to books are now required to undergo approval from CNN PR, and no third parties, except the publisher, can be contracted without specific approval.
In light of these restrictions, Tapper convened several fellow anchors and sought a meeting with Thompson to discuss the new limitations.
Tensions in the newsroom have already been running high. Staff previously raised concerns about airing claims from anonymous sources in Tapper’s book, feeling it placed CNN in a tricky position due to limited fact-checking of external works.
Under former CNN chief Jeff Zucker, books authored by network talent endured what some insiders described as “draconian” standards and a strict fact-checking process overseen by the news standards team.
A CNN spokesperson did not provide any comments on the situation. The Post has attempted to reach Tapper for his take on these developments.
