Dan Rather’s withering criticism of CBS ‘doesn’t reflect reality,’ network insider says
Dan Rather has called the changes at CBS News under editor-in-chief Bari Weiss “sad” and “a disaster”, arguing that corporate consolidation and political influence have damaged the network and its flagship programme, “60 Minutes”. A CBS News insider disputed his assessment, saying it “doesn’t reflect reality” and pointing to critical coverage of the Trump administration.
Rather linked the changes to Skydance Media chief David Ellison’s takeover of CBS’s parent company, Paramount, and to President Donald Trump’s criticism of “60 Minutes”. Paramount appointed Weiss in 2025 after acquiring her outlet, The Free Press, for $150 million. CBS has aired reports on deportations, pardons and federal involvement in elections; the network declined to comment.
In short
- Dan Rather says changes at CBS News have damaged the network.
- A CBS insider says “60 Minutes” has continued critical reporting.
- Paramount appointed Bari Weiss in 2025 after a $150 million acquisition.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Rather’s criticism reflects concern that new ownership and leadership can influence editorial priorities, especially when a network faces pressure from powerful political figures. Critical reports on the administration do not by themselves show that the newsroom’s independence or the standing of programmes such as 60 Minutes has been preserved.
The case against
The insider’s response is that Rather’s account does not match the network’s actual output: CBS has continued to air critical reports on the Trump administration. On this view, judging editorial independence should take account of published coverage, and claims of a broad decline need more evidence than changes in ownership or leadership alone.