Veteran CBS Producer Alleges Political Bias in Farewell Memo
Mary Walsh, a veteran CBS News producer departing after 46 years, has suggested in a farewell memo that political bias is influencing the network's reporting. In the memo, obtained by the Guardian, Walsh wrote, "We've been told to aim our reporting at a particular part of the political spectrum. Honestly, I don't know how to do that." She did not specify which political spectrum was targeted, but the comments come amid accusations of network management trying to curry favor with the Trump administration.
Context of Paramount's Acquisition of Warner Bros Discovery
The memo emerges just a day after CBS News owner Paramount Skydance became the likely victor in a takeover fight for Warner Bros Discovery, which owns CNN. CBS is now led by Bari Weiss, a conservative commentator turned media entrepreneur, whose appointment was seen as a boost to the Trump administration. Some CNN staffers are concerned that political considerations might influence the network under the oversight of the Ellisons, though it is unclear if Weiss will have any role at CNN.
Significance of Walsh's Allegations
A CBS News staffer, unauthorized to comment, described Walsh's remarks as "pretty huge," given her stature at the network. Walsh is among nearly a dozen employees on the evening news program who opted for a buyout. Approximately two weeks ago, another departing producer, Alicia Hastey, criticized the network's direction under Weiss and Paramount Skydance CEO David Ellison. Hastey wrote in her memo, first reported by the New York Times, that stories might be evaluated based on ideological expectations rather than journalistic merit, leading to self-censorship.
Internal Concerns and Chilling Effects
During a town-hall event with Weiss last month, an employee on the Evening News show expressed fear, stating, "Certain decisions and editorial choices have scared us. People are afraid for their jobs and afraid to even speak for fear of retaliation. There has been a chilling effect within our newsroom." This highlights growing internal tensions over editorial freedom and job security.
Tributes and Legacy Reflections
On a staff-wide editorial call, Walsh received a glowing tribute from CBS News president Tom Cibrowski, along with another veteran producer, Kate Rydell. Both were also given an emotional send-off at the network's Washington bureau. In her memo, Walsh reflected on her career, mentioning legends like Walter Cronkite, Joan Shorenstein, Dan Rather, and Bob Schieffer. She emphasized the importance of legacy, writing, "Legacy is about standing on the shoulders of the great journalists of CBS News. Legacy is dynamic. You are creating it now." She shared a message from Schieffer, who noted, "We were lucky because we were part of something grand, something that made a difference."
Encouragement for Colleagues
Walsh concluded her memo with encouragement for her remaining colleagues, urging them to cover history as it unfolds and to stay in touch. Her departure marks a significant moment for CBS News, raising questions about journalistic integrity amid corporate changes and political pressures.
