Former Hudson Institute CEO appointed as ombudsman at CBS News

CBS News Names New Ombudsman Amid Bias Concerns

CBS News has appointed Kenneth Weinstein, the former head of a conservative think tank, as ombudsman to address issues of bias within the network.

Weinstein, who led the Hudson Institute in Washington, DC, from 2011 to 2020, will be in this role to ensure journalistic integrity and transparency. Jeff Shell, the president of CBS’s parent company, Paramount Skydance, announced the appointment.

In his new position, Weinstein will serve as an independent advocate for the organization. He’ll review concerns from both employees and viewers regarding news coverage. Additionally, he will support CBS’s commitment to accuracy and accountability, as stated by the network.

Weinstein is tasked with investigating complaints raised by CBS News staff or external parties. Should he find these issues warrant action, he will report them to Shell and CBS chief George Cheek. They will work alongside Tom Cibrowski, the president and executive editor of CBS News, to recommend and implement necessary measures.

Interestingly, reports indicate Skydance Paramount will compensate Weinstein $250,000 a year for what amounts to a day of work each month.

This role emerged as part of a settlement agreement involving President Trump and media regulators, specifically concerning whether the network’s perceived political bias violated the “public interest” guidelines of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).

The scrutiny particularly focused on a contentious “60 Minutes” interview with Kamala Harris during the 2024 election. Many, including Trump and conservative critics, believed the interview was edited to present Harris in a favorable light.

While the network denied any fraudulent activity, it ultimately settled a related lawsuit for $16 million. CBS acknowledged concerns regarding the way a different interview with President Biden was conducted in October 2023.

Shell expressed optimism about Weinstein’s appointment: “When trust in the media is more important than ever, this new role strengthens our commitment to truth, trust, and accountability.” He noted his long-standing respect for Weinstein’s integrity and judgment.

Currently serving as the chairman of the Hudson Institute, Weinstein previously chaired the Broadcasting Committee, now known as the U.S. Global Media Agency, from 2017 to 2020.

Weinstein expressed his enthusiasm about the role: “I am honored to be the ombudsman for CBS News, one of the most respected journalistic institutions in the world. I look forward to supporting the talented team and managing public trust at this important institution.”