Bari Weiss Restructures CBS News: Staff Cuts, More Commentators
Bari Weiss has taken on the role of Editor-in-Chief at CBS News with a clear mandate: to reshape the organization’s news coverage. Her arrival has been marked by a series of significant changes, including staff reductions and an increase in commentary-driven content.
Bari Weiss’ Vision for CBS News
At an all-staff meeting, Weiss emphasized her commitment to transforming CBS News to meet the demands of the 21st century. She stated, “We all must focus first on what we’re building, not what we’re maintaining.” Weiss aims to connect with a broader audience by adjusting the network’s focus to reflect diverse perspectives.
Key Changes and Initiatives
- Hiring 18 new paid commentators from various fields, including national security and health.
- Implementing a social-media-first approach for original reports from major cities like Kyiv and London.
- Focusing on retention of high-performing staff members who align with her vision.
Among the newly appointed commentators are notable figures such as HR McMaster, former national security advisor, and Reihan Salam, president of the Manhattan Institute. These hires reflect Weiss’s goal to widen the spectrum of voices featured in CBS News programming.
Controversies and Internal Dissent
Weiss’s leadership style has sparked controversy within the newsroom. Her edits to cornerstone programs like 60 Minutes and CBS Evening News have drawn criticism from journalists both within and outside the organization. She has faced backlash for allegedly challenging the commitment of CBS journalists to fairness and credibility.
Several CBS employees have expressed concern over Weiss’s approach, citing her tolerance for internal debate but intolerance for public dissent. Critics have labeled her changes as partisan, linking her actions to the political interests of CBS’s ownership.
Goals Amidst Criticism
Weiss has proclaimed her intent to make CBS News more responsive to the average American’s experiences. The network’s current position, ranked third behind NBC and ABC, has prompted Weiss to reconsider its strategies amidst growing audience skepticism toward mainstream media.
She stressed the importance of “marrying journalistic principles with modern tools” to attract new viewers and rebuild trust in the network.
A Look Ahead
Weiss regards the CBS News division as a start-up, suggesting that rapid changes, experimentation, and even occasional missteps are to be expected. She envisions a future where CBS News evolves significantly over the next year.
“If what I’m describing sounds exciting and exhilarating to you… I am here to work very hard alongside you,” Weiss told staffers, underlining her commitment to fostering a collaborative and innovative work environment.
As CBS News navigates this transformative phase, the balance between innovation, maintaining journalistic integrity, and addressing internal dissent will be critical for its future success.
