Producers at CBS News told Variety on Monday that they are grappling with "conflicting orders" and "mass confusion" because of a memo sent by the new organization's editor in chief, Bari Weiss.
Last week, Weiss sent CBS News staffers a memo requesting that they explain "how they spend their time" to her, their thoughts about CBS News generally, and how Weiss could align with the editorial staff "on achieving a shared vision for CBS News." Union counsel representing the CBS News workers told employees last week not to respond.
The confusion appears to have bled over as staffers said on Monday that Weiss told them to "file notes" to her, even though the union told them not to.
A person familiar with the newsroom told Variety that the orders created "mass confusion" among the staff.
Variety also noted that the order could create a schism in the newsroom.
"Some producers are not covered by a union contract at CBS News and may feel pressure to get employees to follow the new boss’ orders, according to people familiar with the matter," the report reads in part.
