The producer of “CBS Evening News” resigned suddenly on Wednesday, citing “shifting ideological expectations” within the network in a message shared on social media.
Alicia Hasty, who joined CBS News in 2021, mentioned to her colleagues that she was leaving after a takeover offer. In her farewell message, she expressed pride in her work over the past four years, but also raised concerns about changes under editor-in-chief Bari Weiss, who has been described as polarizing.
In a memo shared by New York Times reporter Ben Marin, Hastie wrote about a “radical new vision” that moves away from traditional broadcast practices and embraces what she termed “heretical” journalism. She highlighted a growing challenge: that stories are now judged not just on their journalistic merit but also on their alignment with changing ideological expectations. This, she suggested, pressures producers and reporters to self-censor or avoid stories that could lead to backlash.
Hastie emphasized that none of her remarks were meant to undermine the talent of CBS News journalists, yet added that this moment felt particularly poignant. She lamented how fear and uncertainty could hinder the excellence they strive for.
Quoting CBS news legend Walter Cronkite, she responded to criticisms of liberal bias at the network. Cronkite once asserted that if being liberal meant adhering to good journalism ideals—fairness, accuracy, and impartiality—then that was acceptable. Hastie acknowledged that, while labels may be unavoidable, what truly matters are the standards upheld in journalism.
The farewell note generated considerable buzz on social media, catching the attention of industry insiders and critics alike. Many reacted to Marin’s description of the memo as a “bomb.” Wall Street Journal columnist Gerald Baker pointedly remarked on the situation, suggesting it was merely a disgruntled employee resigning after changes were implemented.
Political strategist Tim Cameron offered a critical perspective, indicating that the decline of CBS Evening News ratings could be explained by such departures, while NewsBusters Editor-in-Chief Curtis Hawk criticized the portrayal of CBS as a “MAGA media outlet,” a sentiment echoed among some left-wing reporters.
Reports also surfaced regarding “60 Minutes” host Scott Pelley suggesting that Bari Weiss needs to take her role more seriously.
CBS News did not respond to inquiries for comment, and Hastie did not provide further remarks when approached. Meanwhile, Weiss, appointed editor-in-chief of CBS News in October after being selected by CEO David Ellison, has faced scrutiny due to her perceived opinions and her limited experience in television.
Recently, during an all-staff town hall, Weiss indicated that the focus on linear television might not be producing the audience demand they hoped for. She has been both criticized and supported for her efforts to shift the network’s direction, particularly with regard to the removal of perceived liberal biases.
CBS has previously faced backlash from the Trump administration concerning various reports, including those on undocumented immigrants with violent criminal records.
