CBS News Staff Reacts Emotionally to Trump Settlement

After the announcement of a settlement in a lawsuit filed by Trump against CBS News, the veteran correspondent Bill Whitaker and his colleagues from “60 Minutes” reportedly had a heartfelt response during a staff meeting.

During a tense Zoom call on Wednesday morning, Whitaker, 73, spoke with what observers described as “tears” but also remained “very calm.” A newsletter noted the emotional atmosphere within the team.

According to reports, CBS didn’t buy certain spins from Paramount’s co-CEO prior to the announcement.

The staff, described as “uncomfortable,” met virtually shortly after 11 am, called together by CBS News President Tom Cibrowski and acting executive producer Tanya Simon.

Simon mentioned in the meeting that he had learned about the settlement through a press conference, adding that both “60 Minutes” and CBS had to apologize to Trump as part of the terms.

Following Whitaker’s comments, fellow correspondents Leslie Stahl and Shalyn Alfonsi expressed their frustration regarding the settlement, feeling it was a move made under political pressure related to the upcoming merger of Paramount Global and Skydance.

Cibrowski and Simon tried to reassure the staff throughout the call, emphasizing the editorial independence of “60 Minutes” and denying any interference from corporate leadership.

Simon also addressed worries about the imminent changes expected post-merger, hinting at the potential hiring of new personnel that could alter the show’s direction.

Concerns lingered among staff members about what the future holds and whether new management would disrupt the established format of the program.

Paramount Global settled the lawsuit for $16 million, which arose from Whitaker’s interview with Kamala Harris conducted just before the 2024 presidential election. Trump claimed CBS News had intentionally edited the interview to harm his electoral chances.

The settlement included provisions for future funding towards Trump’s presidential library but did not involve direct monetary compensation to him or admissions of wrongdoing from CBS.

While CBS News had previously downplayed the lawsuit, the settlement has raised eyebrows, particularly among shareholders, who saw it as a capitulation to Trump, questioning the integrity of the newsroom.

The board’s decision led to significant shake-ups, including the departure of CBS News President Wendy McMahon and “60 Minutes” executive producer Bill Owens.

There had been a call from all seven correspondents of “60 Minutes” for Simon to take over Owens’ role permanently.

A spokesperson for Trump praised the outcome, declaring it a significant victory against “fake news media.” On the contrary, lawmakers voiced their discontent, with Senator Elizabeth Warren labeling the settlement as akin to bribery, calling for further investigation.

Senator Ron Wyden echoed similar sentiments, implying that Paramount had effectively paid Trump to facilitate the merger. He indicated a willingness to call for federal inquiries when the Democrats regain power.

Comment from CBS News and Paramount has not been provided yet.