Staff members at ABC News are feeling “offended” by Terry Moran, particularly after he referred to Trump’s aide, Stephen Miller, as embodying “world-class hatred.”
This outburst, which Moran seems to be deleting from social media, has drawn criticism from ABC executives who say it lacked “objectivity and fairness.”
Moran, an experienced journalist, was suspended on Sunday as they conduct further evaluations, but there are concerns among colleagues about whether this response is sufficient.
“He should be fired,” one ABC insider asserted on Monday, expressing frustration at how Moran’s actions could negatively impact the network.
“Everything Trump complained about concerning the media—its bias and hatred—Moran has essentially proven true,” the source added, suggesting he ought to “check his bias and focus on the facts.”
Taking action against Moran might ease pressure on ABC News head Debra O’Connell, who is grappling with budget cuts amid broader reductions at Disney.
Insiders mention that seasoned ABC journalists could earn between $600,000 and $900,000 annually, making Moran’s potential dismissal a cost-saving move for the network.
“It could show the White House that ABC is serious about these issues whilst cutting costs,” a source explained.
ABC News has not commented on the situation.
Moran did not reply to requests for a statement.
His social media post came after his interview with Trump in April, amid discussions around the administration’s tariff policy.
One reaction came from Miller’s deputy, who noted that while Miller plays a significant role in the Trumpist agenda, “it’s not about being the brain behind it. It’s more about the negative impulses.” This person characterized Miller more as a “world-class hater” than anything of intellectual substance.
Following the interview in April, Moran reportedly has had discussions with the vice president of ABC News, where they talked about the importance of unbiased media coverage, regardless of political stance.
However, it was said that the interview took a turn, with Trump stating he agreed to the meeting because he “had never heard of him.”
A source commented that the choice of Moran for the interview was not straightforward; Trump had discussions with the network regarding potential interviewers and preferred Moran due to his experience.
Reportedly, Trump was not keen on being interviewed by anchors like George Stephanopoulos or David Muir, who have previously criticized him.
“Honestly, I was surprised Trump picked him,” remarked a former colleague, noting that Moran tended to bring personal opinions into discussions unexpectedly.
Responses to Moran’s attack on Miller have varied, with some calling it “silly.”
“Terry has always had a high regard for his own opinions,” noted one source.
ABC News indicated that Moran’s suspension came due to concerns over lapses in fairness and objectivity.
“ABC News champions objectivity in reporting and does not accept personal, subjective attacks,” they stated, clarifying that Moran’s post was not in line with the network’s values.
Many within the organization worry that this incident could overshadow O’Connell’s efforts to bridge relationships with the administration.
O’Connell, along with other executives, even flew to West Palm Beach, Florida, to meet with Trump representatives following a significant legal development for the president.
In a civil ruling, Trump was found liable for sexual assault, prompting a denial from him. This legal backdrop complicates the ongoing narrative surrounding his administration.
