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Bari Weiss Named CBS News Editor-in-Chief Amidst Controversy

Weiss' appointment, despite no broadcast experience, signals a significant shift at CBS. Her critics worry about division, while supporters hope for positive change.

In the picture there is a newspaper front page. There are many advertisements and headlines are...
In the picture there is a newspaper front page. There are many advertisements and headlines are mentioned in the newspaper.

Bari Weiss Named CBS News Editor-in-Chief Amidst Controversy

Bari Weiss, a 41-year-old journalist, has been appointed editor-in-chief of CBS News. She will report directly to David Ellison, the chairman of Paramount and son of billionaire Larry Ellison. This move comes amidst online antisemitic mutterings about a 'Jewish billionaire' hiring a 'pro-Israel propagandist'.

Weiss, who quit the New York Times in 2020 citing a 'bullying' work environment and 'illiberal' culture, has since launched the Free Press. This startup has generated $15 million in annual subscription revenue. Despite having no traditional broadcast experience, Weiss persuaded Paramount to buy her startup for $150 million. Matt K. Lewis, author of 'Filthy Rich Politicians' and 'Too Dumb to Fail', is optimistic about Weiss' potential to bring change to CBS News.

Weiss, described as a 'true centrist', is anti-Trump, supports Israel, and criticizes 'cancel culture' on the progressive left. Her career trajectory has been meteoric, serving as op-ed editor for both the Wall Street Journal and the New York Times by her mid-30s. She has promised to 'help reshape a storied media organization' and restore its glory.

There are two competing theories about Weiss' elevation. The Sinister Theory suggests an authoritarian takeover, while the Reconciliation Gambit posits that she will bring balance and diversity to biased media. Some CBS veterans, however, are less than thrilled about Weiss' arrival due to her public criticism of traditional media's role in political polarization.

Bari Weiss' appointment as editor-in-chief of CBS News signals a significant shift in the network's leadership. Her lack of traditional broadcast experience and public criticism of mainstream media have sparked debate about her potential impact. Time will tell whether she will bring about positive change or division within the network.

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