White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller has called for the dismissal of CBS producers following a controversial decision to remove a segment from the latest episode of 60 Minutes. The segment, which was set to highlight conditions at the notorious Centro de Confinamiento del Terrorismo (CECOT) in El Salvador, was cut from the broadcast by CBS News Editor-in-Chief Bari Weiss just before air time, sparking outrage among staff and political figures alike.
During a recent interview on Fox News, Miller expressed his discontent with CBS producers who opposed Weiss’s last-minute decision, suggesting they should be “fired immediately.” He characterized their objections as a “revolt” against management. The segment was intended to address the treatment of migrants with alleged gang affiliations deported by the Trump administration. Reports indicate that tensions at CBS have escalated, with some employees threatening to leave the network over the incident.
Miller criticized the producers, stating, “You have these 60 Minutes producers who are living in comfort and security in their West End condos trying to make us feel sympathetic for these monsters.” He referred to the inmates at CECOT, questioning their societal portrayal and emphasizing the seriousness of their crimes. Miller further challenged the producers to invite any of the inmates into their homes for a night.
In a strongly worded address, Miller insisted, “Every one of those producers at 60 Minutes engaged in this revolt. Fire them, clean house, fire them.” This sentiment reflects a growing divide within the network over editorial direction and decision-making processes.
The journalist responsible for the segment, Sharyn Alfonsi, reportedly sent an internal memo condemning Weiss’s decision as politically motivated rather than based on editorial standards. This memo was subsequently leaked to the media, heightening tensions among staff. A version of the segment mistakenly aired in Canada before being pulled from the US broadcast, with producers stating it would be featured in a future episode. Weiss defended her choice, asserting, “My job is to make sure that all stories we publish are the best they can be.”
The controversy surrounding the segment is further complicated by the backdrop of CBS’s recent leadership changes. Bari Weiss, who took over as head of CBS News in October, has faced criticism for her handling of the network’s operations. Some industry insiders have described her approach as chaotic, indicating that her management style is causing discontent among the network’s staff.
According to sources within CBS, Weiss’s actions have drawn scrutiny regarding her capability to lead a major news organization. One anonymous executive remarked, “It’s clear Bari is more focused on gaining access to the powerful than actual journalism and holding those in power accountable.”
Miller’s comments come as CBS’s parent company, Paramount, navigates a challenging acquisition of Warner Bros-Discovery, illustrating the complex environment in which Weiss is operating. The fallout from the 60 Minutes segment has not only raised questions about editorial independence but also highlighted the pressures faced by media organizations amid shifting leadership and political landscapes.
As the situation develops, the implications for CBS News and its editorial integrity remain to be seen, with reactions to Weiss’s management style continuing to unfold. The network’s ability to maintain its reputation for journalistic standards amid these controversies will be a focal point in the coming weeks.
