During his return to 60 Minutes in November, Donald Trump praised Bari Weiss, the newly installed editor-in-chief of CBS News, calling her a “great new leader.” After the interview, Weiss approached the president to introduce herself, and the two exchanged kisses on the cheek, according to four sources familiar with the incident.
The exchange left several people in the room shocked, with one source saying correspondent Norah O’Donnell’s “jaw dropped.” A CBS News reporter described the moment as “wildly inappropriate” and said it “reeks of elitism.” Another staffer noted that a firm handshake would have been more professional.
A high-ranking CBS News insider defended the interaction, calling it “standard fare” for network executives to exchange pleasantries after presidential interviews. The insider added that Trump greeted others in the same way. However, other staffers disagreed, with one former producer stating that standard procedure is to take a photo and remain professional.
After the pleasantries, Trump agreed to answer additional questions about his pardon of crypto billionaire Changpeng Zhao. The White House did not comment on the record but shared a photo of CBS executives smiling with Trump on social media.
Since the interview, Weiss has faced scrutiny over her editorial decisions and accusations of favouritism towards the Trump administration. Last month, she reportedly spiked a segment on 60 Minutes, sparking a potential revolt within the programme.
