Background on Bari Weiss
Bari Weiss, a 41-year-old American journalist, has become a prominent critic of what she perceives as the bias in major progressive media outlets. She is well-regarded by the conservative wing of the United States.
Weiss’s Background and Controversies
Weiss gained attention after resigning as a columnist and editor at The New York Times in 2020, citing an “intolerant” environment favoring a progressive stance. Her departure was praised by conservatives who have long accused large media outlets of liberal bias.
Although Weiss shares criticisms of traditional media with Donald Trump, she is not closely aligned with the former president’s policies. An openly lesbian and pro-abortion rights individual, her views distance her from the “MAGA” movement associated with Trump.
Paramount Skydance Corporation’s Announcement
David Ellison, CEO of Paramount Skydance Corporation, announced on Monday that Bari Weiss has been appointed as the Chief Editor of CBS News, a cornerstone of American news reporting.
“Bari is a proven champion of independent and principled journalism, and I am confident that her entrepreneurial spirit and editorial vision will revitalize CBS News,” Ellison stated, the son of Oracle’s founder and one of the world’s wealthiest men, Larry Ellison.
Acquisition of The Free Press
In addition to Weiss’s appointment, Paramount Skydance Corporation has purchased her independent media outlet, The Free Press. Founded by Weiss during her departure from The New York Times, The Free Press has since amassed over a million subscribers on the Substack newsletter platform.
The acquisition is reportedly valued at $150 million, according to American media outlets.
Impact and Future Implications
Weiss’s leadership at CBS News will be closely scrutinized by critical press amidst Republican pressure for media to criticize the government less. The merger between Paramount Global and Skydance was approved by regulatory authorities after the new company committed to incorporating “a diversity of viewpoints across the entire political and ideological spectrum,” as stated by FCC Chairman Brendan Carr.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is Bari Weiss? Bari Weiss is a 41-year-old American journalist known for her criticism of perceived bias in major progressive media outlets.
- What is her new role? Weiss has been appointed as the Chief Editor of CBS News by Paramount Skydance Corporation.
- What is The Free Press? The Free Press is an independent media outlet founded by Bari Weiss during her departure from The New York Times in 2020.
- Why is this significant? Weiss’s appointment and the acquisition of The Free Press by Paramount Skydance Corporation signal a shift in American news media, with an emphasis on independent journalism and diverse viewpoints.
- What are Weiss’s political stances? Weiss identifies as lesbian and pro-abortion rights, distancing herself from the Trump-aligned “MAGA” movement.
