Meet Bari Weiss: CBS News’ New Editor-in-Chief and Bold Critic of Legacy Media

Paramount recently announced its acquisition of The Free Press, a news site known for critiquing mainstream media and “woke” culture. Bari Weiss, co-founder of The Free Press, has been appointed as the new editor-in-chief of CBS News.

Weiss expressed her excitement in a letter to readers, stating, “I am thrilled to help shape how millions of Americans engage with the news today.” Her move to CBS is seen as a significant step in her career, following her roles at the Wall Street Journal and New York Times.

Weiss left the Times in 2020 after a controversial op-ed by Sen. Tom Cotton sparked outrage among staff. In her resignation letter, she spotlighted the hostility she faced and her belief that the Times had become too influenced by online critics.

Following her exit, Weiss launched The Free Press, aiming to promote independent journalism. The publication quickly grew, diversifying its content to include podcasts and live events. It has become known for dissecting significant cultural issues, including health care and educational policies.

As part of its journey, The Free Press attracted a substantial following, boasting 1.5 million subscribers—an 86% increase over the past year. Weiss recognizes that this growth is just the beginning, saying, “We aspire to reach a larger audience in a country of 340 million.” The financial backing from prominent figures like Marc Andreessen and Howard Schultz has also contributed to its expansion.

While Weiss prepares to take the reins at CBS, her lack of broadcast experience raises questions about her day-to-day management role. However, her influence on editorial choices could help CBS attract more right-leaning viewers, especially after recent ownership changes aimed at diversifying political perspectives.

“Bari is a champion of principled journalism,” said David Ellison, CEO of Skydance Media, emphasizing how her vision aligns with their goal of modernizing media content.

Weiss hails from a Jewish background in Pittsburgh and faced early experiences linked to her faith. As a Columbia University student, she challenged what she saw as anti-Israel biases in academia. These formative experiences led her to establish herself as a writer and editor in various outlets, ultimately shaping her current viewpoints.

Her political identity is nuanced. Weiss describes herself as a “radical centrist” and has debated numerous topics in her columns, often inciting strong reactions from both sides of the political spectrum. This complexity makes her a compelling figure in today’s media landscape, as she navigates the extremes of contemporary discourse.

As she transitions back to legacy media, Weiss reflects on the dramatic shifts in journalism. “Mainstream gatekeepers have failed in many respects,” she notes. The rise of independent voices and social media influencers marks a significant evolution in how news is consumed today. She aims to bridge gaps, representing moderate views often overlooked by polarized platforms.

With The Free Press now under Paramount, Weiss hopes to expand its mission, promoting open dialogue and inquiry in an increasingly divided society. She has outlined ten principles to guide her journalism, focusing on fairness, truthfulness, and a panoramic view of current issues. Moving forward, Weiss strives to offer a balanced platform, encouraging healthy discourse among audiences.

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