Kara Swisher Draws a Line in the Sand Over CNN’s Future
Veteran tech journalist and CNN contributor Kara Swisher has made her stance crystal clear regarding the potential future of the news network. Speaking at a recent event hosted by Syracuse University, Swisher issued a stern warning: she is prepared to walk away from CNN if the company undergoes a sale to David Ellison’s Paramount, especially if it signals what critics are already dubbing a “MAGA makeover.”
Swisher, known for her incisive commentary and no-holds-barred approach, articulated her position forcefully when questioned about her potential willingness to remain with CNN under new ownership. “I don’t see how,” she stated plainly. “I don’t think they’ll be good owners. I don’t. I think they’ve already shown several times, including editorial choices… that they have no interest in journalism. And I refuse to work for an organization that doesn’t respect journalists.”
This declaration comes at a particularly interesting juncture, as Swisher is set to debut her new CNN show, “Kara Swisher Wants to Live Forever,” in April. However, she indicated that she has little to lose by making such a bold move.
“I created my own media organization where I make a lot of money, so I don’t have to,” Swisher explained. “So for me to stand up and say ‘I’m not working for you hacks, I’m just not doing it’ and it’s not worth it to me.”
Billionaires, the ‘MAGA Makeover’ Fears, and the Media Landscape
The conversation at Syracuse University touched upon the myriad pressures currently confronting the media industry. Professor Margaret Talev highlighted challenges such as the rapid advancements in artificial intelligence, the fragmentation caused by social media, and broader shifts in how news is consumed. Swisher, however, zeroed in on a specific concern: “By the purchasing of media by technology billionaires.”
She posed a pointed question to the audience, “Do you understand what they’re doing?” Swisher then turned her attention to Scott MacFarlane, a former CBS News correspondent who departed the network following its acquisition by David Ellison, the son of tech magnate Larry Ellison. Swisher offered MacFarlane a knowing nod, remarking, “good move.”
“You don’t wanna work for the Ellisons,” she added, delivering a sharp critique. “I’ve spent a lot of time with Larry Ellison, and he’s a terrible person.” This personal anecdote underscored her deep-seated concerns about the potential impact of billionaire ownership on journalistic integrity.
CNN at a Critical Juncture
While the prospect of a sale is still some months away, the winds of change are already palpable within CNN. Observers have noted a shift in programming styles, with prominent anchors such as Anderson Cooper and Jake Tapper reportedly experimenting with more informal, podcast-like formats. Simultaneously, the network is bracing for potential layoffs, adding to an atmosphere of uncertainty.
Swisher’s ultimatum arrives at a particularly sensitive moment for CNN, as the network is actively promoting her upcoming show, “Kara Swisher Wants to Live Forever.” Her public declaration serves as a significant statement, highlighting the potential internal dissent and the high stakes involved in the network’s future.
Ready to ‘Wander’ if Necessary
In contrast to many network personalities who might feel cornered by potential ownership changes, Swisher conveyed a sense of agency and preparedness. She suggested that she has a variety of options available should CNN’s direction take a turn she finds unacceptable. Beyond her existing role hosting the popular “On With Kara Swisher” podcast through Vox Media, she even alluded to the possibility of joining a direct competitor.
“And so it just doesn’t hurt me because I can wander over to MS,” she stated, implying a potential move to a platform like MSNBC. “I can wander anywhere else.” This sentiment reinforces her commitment to journalistic principles and her unwillingness to compromise them for the sake of employment. Her ability to explore other avenues provides her with the leverage to stand firm on her convictions.
