Congressman requests information on changes made to Trump's '60 Minutes' interview

Rep. Jamie Raskin of Maryland has formally asked CBS News to provide internal records and clarify the editorial process that led to the removal of several sections from last months 60 Minutes interview with President Donald Trump. According to Raskin, the edits were made after Trump objected during filming.

The omitted content reportedly included discussion of a $16 million settlement between Trump and Paramount, CBS parent company, as well as questions about Trumps pardon of Binance founder Changpeng Zhao.

Details of the Congressional Request

In correspondence sent to CBS ombudsman Kenneth Weinstein, Raskin demanded written clarification of the networks procedures for handling interview-related complaints, an evaluation of whether Trumps push to exclude certain remarks compromised CBS editorial independence, and full documentation and communication provided to producers involved in the segment.

He asked that the information and a staff briefing be delivered by December 17.

Concerns Over Editorial Influence

Raskin asserted that Trump is attempting to assert undue control over the networks decision-making. He pointed to Paramount leadership under David Ellison, whose father has publicly supported Trump, emphasizing Weinsteins appointment following Paramounts settlement with Trump and during the companys pending merger with Skydance Media.

He also noted the departure of 60 Minutes executive producer Bill Owens prior to the settlement and on-air comments expressing concern from correspondent Scott Pelley.

Response From CBS

The request currently seeks voluntary cooperation and does not mention subpoena authority. While reports framed the move as the start of an investigation, neither CBS News nor Paramount issued responses to inquiries regarding the matter.

Raskins letter also called on Weinstein to publicly affirm the newsrooms independence and to release all materials associated with the editing decisions for Trumps appearance.

Author: Connor Blake