CBS News employees criticize Bari Weiss for moderating 'absurd' network town hall with Erika Kirk

CBS News employees are expressing dissatisfaction with Bari Weiss, the networks newly appointed editor-in-chief, taking on the role of moderator for an upcoming televised town hall featuring Erika Kirk, widow of Charlie Kirk. One insider described the decision as embarrassing, criticizing Weiss for seemingly prioritizing her own on-air presence over newsroom responsibilities.

The town hall, scheduled to air on December 13 at 8 p.m. ET, will feature Kirk discussing personal loss and the current state of political discourse following her husbands assassination earlier this year. The program will be filmed in front of a live studio audience and include questions from young evangelicals, religious leaders, and figures across the political spectrum, while addressing the nations political divide.

Weiss, founder of the anti-woke media outlet The Free Press, commented on her excitement about the conversation with Kirk, highlighting Kirks act of forgiveness toward her husbands killer as a moment she will never forget. Kirk, now leading the conservative youth organization Turning Point USA, has become increasingly visible in conservative media and political circles, appearing in interviews and live events, including the New York Times DealBook summit.

The hour-long special will broadcast on CBS Television Network and later stream on Paramount+ and CBS News 24/7. It will replace the networks planned airing of the 28th annual Family Film and TV Awards, which will be rescheduled. Attendees for the live taping in New York City were asked questions about political affiliation, personal grief, and religious beliefs.

Since her appointment in October, Weiss has been tasked with holding both political parties to scrutiny and revitalizing CBS News. She has been involved in organizing interviews with prominent figures like Hillary Clinton and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, though she had not previously appeared on camera. Weiss sister, Suzy Weiss, has already participated in CBS News segments.

Many network staffers have voiced criticism over Weiss self-assigned primetime role, calling it absurd and accusing her of using her position to promote herself rather than focus on newsroom responsibilities. Questions have also been raised about whether CBS owner David Ellison may regret his decision to appoint Weiss, given the negative reception among employees.

Despite internal controversy, Weiss has publicly expressed her vision for CBS News, emphasizing outreach to Americans in the political center-left and center-right and aiming to restore what she considers a balanced and normal discourse in national media.

Author: Olivia Parker