Donald Trump has long targeted CNN with relentless criticism, rallying his supporters to echo his disdain for the network. During the 2016 campaign, chants of "CNN sucks!" became a staple at his events, and he continues to attack prominent journalists like Kaitlan Collins, accusing the outlet of bias despite its inclusion of pro-Trump voices such as Scott Jennings.
Paramount Skydance Moves Closer to Warner Bros Discovery Takeover
Now, Trump may be on the verge of a significant victory as his wealthy associates at Paramount Skydance advance toward acquiring Warner Bros Discovery, CNN's parent company. While regulatory hurdles remain, with state attorneys general likely to intervene, the prospects look favorable for Trump and his allies. This development follows Netflix's withdrawal from the bidding war, despite initial board approval, amid speculation of political influence.
Behind-the-Scenes Political Maneuvering
Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos recently met with top Trump aides at the White House, though the exact nature of the discussions is unclear. Meanwhile, Trump maintains close ties with Paramount Skydance leadership, including CEO David Ellison and his father Larry Ellison, an Oracle co-founder and one of the world's wealthiest individuals. Courtney Radsch, director of the Center for Journalism and Liberty at the Open Markets Institute, expressed concern over this politically motivated involvement, noting it represents an unprecedented effort to weaken major news networks.
Trump's Broader Campaign Against Media Independence
Trump's strategy extends beyond this deal. He has filed lawsuits against news organizations like Disney-owned ABC News, leveraging settlements for public relations gains. His relationships with billionaires, such as Jeff Bezos of the Washington Post, have also impacted editorial decisions, exemplified by Bezos blocking an endorsement of Kamala Harris before the 2024 election.
The Transformation of CBS News Under Paramount Skydance
Paramount Skydance's influence is already evident at CBS News, where Bari Weiss, a broadcasting novice praised by Trump, has steered the network toward a more conservative, Fox News-like direction. Former employees report increasing self-censorship due to shifting ideological expectations, a stark departure from the legacy of figures like Walter Cronkite and Edward R Murrow.
Implications for Media Democracy and Competition
Craig Aaron, co-CEO of Free Press, warns that Trump aims to control news media for partisan ends, akin to authoritarian leaders like Hungary's Viktor Orbán. The Free Press's "media capitulation index" rates Netflix highly for independence but gives Paramount low marks, highlighting concerns over consolidation. While both potential acquisitions were criticized for reducing competition, Netflix's plan to spin off CNN offered better prospects for editorial autonomy.
Regulatory Challenges and Future Outlook
Historically, such mega-deals faced antitrust scrutiny, but in today's political climate, with a Justice Department perceived as compromised, Paramount Skydance is likely to succeed. This trend reinforces fears of an oligarchic shift in America, where Trump's influence over media could grow unchecked, reshaping the landscape of US journalism and democracy.
