After three months as CBS News head, Bari Weiss has faced widespread criticism from observers across the political spectrum, with many suggesting she has failed to meet even their lowest expectations for the role.
According to the Guardian, insiders at the network describe a sense of deteriorating confidence in Weiss's leadership. One CBS insider characterized the atmosphere as "blood in the water" as critics observe her accumulating multiple high-profile blunders.
Weiss has faced particular scrutiny for pulling a "60 Minutes" segment documenting immigrant mistreatment under Department of Homeland Security head Kristi Noem. The controversy intensified when the disputed segment aired in Canada and subsequently went viral on social media.
The highly anticipated CBS News reboot with new anchor Tony Dokoupil also generated criticism. A released clip featured Dokoupil stating the network would place less emphasis on "the analysis of academics or elites" and instead solicit opinions from "the average American" under Weiss's direction led to accusations of dumbing-down the news..
Weiss has encountered criticism from both liberal observers and conservative media figures typically aligned with her anti-woke positioning. Her town hall with Erika Kirk, widow of Charlie Kirk, underperformed with viewers and failed to generate expected conservative support, garnering criticism instead.
Former Fox News personality Megyn Kelly criticized Weiss's approach: "Bari Weiss wants to couch herself as Erika's protector, Erika's defender. Bari Weiss tried to play both super-important VIP executive and super-fabulous star anchor at her new network, CBS."
Conservative commentator Tucker Carlson offered a blunt assessment: "I'm not too worried about Bari Weiss taking over the world. I don't care how many billionaires hand her news organizations because she's obedient to their preferred country. She's still an idiot — sorry."
CBS News staff members express confusion about Weiss's editorial vision. One staffer told the Guardian, "I'm constantly confused by what her definition of 'making news' is. It seems like she only cares about big names saying controversial things. That's not the same as newsworthiness."
Multiple insiders noted limited communication from Weiss's office. "We don't hear from her very often," one said, while another observed, "she's rubbing people the wrong way" during her infrequent interactions with staff.
Despite speculation that dissatisfied journalists might seek employment elsewhere, departures appear unlikely given the current television job market. According to one CBS News staffer, "I know the mood is to stay and fight," with some staff members hoping to outlast Weiss's tenure.
