Free Press Co-Founder Takes Helm as CBS News Editor-in-Chief

Bari Weiss, co-founder of Free Press, is set to lead a new discussion show focusing on critical issues, as reported by The Wall Street Journal. In a significant move, Paramount announced the acquisition of Free Press, with Weiss becoming the editor-in-chief of CBS News.

During the announcement, Weiss and Paramount CEO David Ellison emphasized their commitment to prioritizing “reality-reflecting news” and fostering understanding rather than demonization. This emphasis seems to reflect a broader trend of media outlets seeking to balance perspectives in a polarized environment.

Weiss communicated to CBS News employees, stating that her leadership would uphold the core journalistic values that define the profession. She expressed her determination to monitor both political parties equally, aiming to create a reliable news source for the audience. Ellison echoed this sentiment, asserting that CBS News aims to be a “fair” platform, and highlighting Weiss’s direct reporting line to him as an indicator of their collaborative efforts.

Although Free Press will operate independently and continue producing subscriber-focused content, reactions from some left-leaning journalists and public figures showcased dissatisfaction with Weiss’s appointment, especially concerning her views on Israel and her perceived detachment from traditional ideological lines.

Critics, like Cenk Uygur of Young Turks, voiced their concerns over Weiss’s influence within CBS News, suggesting that the appointment could undermine CBS’s credibility. Responses from Weiss, CBS News, and Paramount regarding these criticisms have not yet been forthcoming.