Dan Rather Critiques CBS News Over Bari Weiss Appointment

On Thursday, former CBS News anchor Dan Rather expressed concerns regarding the recent appointment of journalist Bari Weiss as editor-in-chief at CBS News, alongside the acquisition of her independent outlet, The Free Press. Rather, now 93 years old, voiced his thoughts on his Substack page, suggesting that the hiring of what he termed “anti-woke” reporters—coupled with CBS’s alignment with billionaire David Ellison, who has ties to former President Donald Trump—marks a troubling shift towards favoring Trump’s policies.

He warned that this decision could have significant consequences. “The American people will pay the price for this move,” he noted, emphasizing that it undermines the credibility of CBS News reporters. Rather stated that these journalists, meant to serve as watchdogs, may find their integrity compromised when their paychecks come from those they should be challenging.

Rather characterized the day as “dark” for CBS News, mirroring concerns held by others in the media. Following a $150 million deal to acquire The Free Press, CBS’s parent company, Paramount, elevated Weiss to her new role. This move sparked outrage among liberal media professionals, as Weiss’s organization has attracted attention for its controversial stances on diversity, equity, and inclusion, as well as its support for Israel.

Rather expressed skepticism about Weiss’s qualifications for the position. “She is not a reporter,” he remarked, pointing out that she has limited experience in television news or leading a team of journalists. He noted that Weiss’s direct report to Ellison, rather than the president of CBS News, signals a significant shift in the organization’s governance.

The former anchor also took issue with Weiss’s recent declarations about tackling illiberalism across the political spectrum. He felt that equating the two sides is problematic, especially when one side is represented by someone like Trump.

Weiss’s hiring follows a merger between Paramount and Skydance, which placed Ellison, close to Trump and whose family has considerable wealth, in a powerful position in this new venture. Rather underscored that Weiss’s hiring sends a clear message: CBS News is now more influenced by conservative perspectives.

He expressed concern that dissenting views on Trump’s policies might be suppressed under the current leadership. “No journalist or their work is immune to struggling in an environment like this,” he cautioned.

Rather reminisced about the days when CBS was known for journalistic integrity, referencing the legacies of pioneers like Cronkite and Murrow, contrasting it with present uncertainties regarding trust in news. “Today, who and what should we believe?” he pondered.

CBS News has not publicly commented on the situation, and attempts to reach Paramount for further insights remain unanswered.