CNN is reportedly planning to move Jim Acosta’s show, CNN Newsroom with Jim Acosta, to a midnight slot. Many believe this is not just a regular schedule change but a way to reduce Acosta’s visibility as Donald Trump returns to office. The midnight slot, often called the “Siberia of television news,” is known for low viewership.
Jim Acosta is famous for his confrontations with Trump during his first term as president. In one instance in 2018, Trump called Acosta “a rude, terrible person” during a press conference. This led to the White House revoking Acosta’s press pass. CNN had to take legal action to get it reinstated. This incident highlighted the growing tension between Trump and the media, especially journalists who challenge him.
CNN says the decision is part of its plan to change its schedule. The network’s boss, Mark Thompson, wants to move veteran anchor Wolf Blitzer to the mornings. However, some insiders think the real reason is to avoid upsetting Trump. According to a media executive quoted by Status News, “They want to get rid of Acosta to throw a bone to Trump. Midnight is not a serious offer when his ratings are among the best on the network.” Acosta has a strong following, and his ratings have been solid. This has led many to wonder if CNN’s leadership is trying to avoid controversy with Trump, who often attacks the media.
This situation is not new. Trump has a history of targeting journalists who challenge him. He has repeatedly called the press “fake news” and referred to reporters as the “enemy of the people.” During his first term, Trump publicly criticized journalists like Acosta and even tweeted insults about others, such as MSNBC’s Mika Brzezinski. These actions created a hostile environment for reporters, and some even received threats simply for doing their jobs.
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This behavior reminds many of past presidents who clashed with the press. For example, during the Nixon administration, journalists like Dan Rather faced similar pressure. Rather’s hard-hitting questions about Watergate made him a target, but they also exposed the truth.
Jim Acosta has always defended the role of journalists in holding leaders accountable. Recently, on his show, he said,
“Journalists exist to seek the truth, to tell people’s stories, to lift up voices that may not be heard otherwise, to shine a light on injustice, and to hold the powerful accountable.”
Press freedom matters. Moving his show to a less-visible time could send a dangerous message. It is unclear if Acosta will accept the midnight slot. If CNN goes ahead with this move, it may lose viewers who respect Acosta’s work. The press plays a vital role in democracy. Silencing voices like Acosta’s only weaken the system. As journalist Walter Cronkite once said, “Freedom of the press is not just important to democracy; it is democracy.”
Featured image via Screengrab
