The landscape at CBS News is shifting, with Bari Weiss taking the reins as editor in chief. One of her first major moves involves Gayle King, co-host of “CBS Mornings.” Reports indicate that King may transition to a new role as a correspondent, and her current $13 million salary might face a steep reduction. Sources claim Weiss and King met for a “low-key” lunch to discuss this potential change, signaling a clear shakeup in the newsroom.
This decision receives backing from CBS News President Tom Cibrowski. King’s contract, which renews annually, will be up for review in May, making this an opportune moment for reassessment. King has notable experience and skill in interviewing, particularly with celebrities. If reassigned, it could allow her to utilize those strengths in less prominent but still valuable roles.
During her tenure, King has drawn considerable attention, not always for positive reasons. At Trump’s inauguration in January 2025, she made headlines for her comments questioning the diversity present in the crowd—comments that prompted sharp backlash from critics. The reaction was swift, with Heritage Foundation media fellow Tim Young criticizing her focus on race, stating, “Everything has to be about race. America is sick of this…that’s why Trump won.” Others joined in the criticism, mocking the idea of investigating racial representation at the inauguration. One user sarcastically asked whether CBS had a department dedicated to “counting black people,” illustrating the frustration some feel towards the network’s focus on such issues.
Weiss, although she does not fit the mold of a traditional conservative, is reported to want to restore a sense of journalistic integrity at CBS. She may not be aiming to create a pro-Trump news outlet, but her leadership is likely to spark changes that push CBS closer to upholding more traditional standards of reporting. This raises an interesting question about other networks—if Weiss can create a shift at CBS, what would it take for CNN or others to follow suit?
For CBS, moving away from a “never-Trump” narrative could represent a significant change in direction. Such a shift, while not necessarily political, could rejuvenate the network and resonate with a broader audience. As Weiss seeks to implement her vision, only time will determine the effectiveness of her strategies and the future of King within CBS.
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