In a significant move that has sent ripples through the broadcast journalism world, CBS News has implemented a stringent new interview policy for its flagship Sunday programme, 'Face The Nation'. The controversial mandate requires all interviews to receive explicit approval from a senior producer before they can be booked, marking a substantial shift in the network's editorial operations.
The internal memo, obtained by DailyMail.com, outlines a comprehensive set of new guidelines that fundamentally alter how the long-running public affairs programme conducts its guest selection process. This development represents one of the most substantial changes to the programme's booking procedures in recent memory.
New Hierarchy of Approval
Under the revamped system, the executive editor and senior broadcast producer now hold ultimate authority over all interview decisions. The policy explicitly states that no interviews can be confirmed without their direct sign-off, creating a centralised approval process that bypasses traditional booking protocols.
This restructuring effectively establishes a new chain of command within the programme's editorial structure, with producers required to seek explicit permission at multiple stages of the booking process. The changes appear designed to create additional layers of oversight and quality control.
Impact on Daily Operations
The new guidelines have already begun transforming the daily workflow of 'Face The Nation' staff. Producers must now navigate an elaborate approval process that includes detailed documentation and multiple checkpoints before any interview can be formally confirmed.
This represents a departure from the previously more fluid booking system and has raised questions about how the changes might affect the programme's ability to secure high-profile guests on tight deadlines, particularly during breaking news situations.
Industry Context and Implications
This policy shift occurs against a backdrop of increasing scrutiny of media practices and journalistic standards across the news industry. Many networks are reevaluating their editorial processes in response to changing viewer expectations and the competitive pressure of digital news platforms.
The changes at 'Face The Nation' may signal a broader trend toward more centralised control over editorial content within major news organisations. How this will affect the programme's content and interview selection remains to be seen, but it undoubtedly marks a new chapter for the venerable Sunday show.
