From Vanity Fair · Maxwell Adler · · 1m 40s
David Ellison's CNN Board Search
David Ellison seeks five independent journalists for CNN and CBS editorial oversight board amid antitrust settlement.
In brief
David Ellison seeks five independent journalists for CNN and CBS editorial oversight board amid antitrust settlement. David Ellison is appointing five respected journalists to a CNN and CBS editorial oversight board to address antitrust concerns. Originally reported by Vanity Fair.
David Ellison's New Board
Skydance chairman David Ellison seeks five respected journalists for CNN and CBS editorial oversight board under antitrust settlement.
Board Requirements
The board must include five journalists with at least 10 years experience, no more than two sharing political affiliation, and no party declarations.
Political Balance Challenge
Finding journalists willing to identify with political parties risks alienating many professionals who see their identity as separate from politics.
Charles Forelle's Role
Charles Forelle, a former Wall Street Journal reporter now working under Bari Weiss at CBS News, is burdened with finding board members.
Potential Candidates
Names being floated include Andrew Lack, Jim Bell, Kara Swisher, and Walter Isaacson, though none have been approached yet.
Timeline for Appointments
Skydance has until April 4, 2027, to make its board appointments.
Board's Purpose
The board was created to separate Ellison’s personal politics from CNN’s journalism following antitrust settlement.
Criticism of Board Design
Experts say the political requirement undermines the board’s independence and may deter qualified candidates.
Potential Impact
The board could invite government interference in journalism if it fails to maintain independence.
Connecticut AG's View
Connecticut attorney general William Tong wanted full divestiture of CNN and CBS News but settled for a compromise.
Next Steps
Skydance must appoint board members by April 4, 2027, or face legal consequences.
The takeaway
David Ellison is appointing five respected journalists to a CNN and CBS editorial oversight board to address antitrust concerns.
