President Donald Trump signaled his endorsement of David Ellison's impending acquisition of Paramount Global, amidst lingering thoughts of an ongoing lawsuit with the company stemming from a controversial 60 Minutes interview featuring former Vice President Kamala Harris. When prompted by reporters during a Wednesday press availability about the transaction and whether he foresaw a swift resolution, Trump replied, "I hope so. Ellison is exceptional; he'll steer it marvelously."
It's noteworthy that Ellison was recently spotted alongside Trump at a UFC event held in Newark, New Jersey. Ellison's company, Skydance, is in the process of acquiring Paramount, albeit the deal is currently on hold pending approval from the FCC for the transfer of broadcast licenses.
Delving deeper, Trump tied the Paramount acquisition to his lawsuit, elucidating his stance on the matter. "They interviewed Kamala, and her answer was dreadful, potentially election-jeopardizing," he asserted. "They edited out her entire response and substituted it with a snippet from another question. And they did this repeatedly… We caught them red-handed, and they're embarrassed, now working towards a settlement."
According to an FCC-filed transcript and raw footage of the interview, 60 Minutes utilized one portion of Harris' answer for a promotional clip and another segment within the actual broadcast. Trump further commented that "they're all getting axed," a nod to the exits of 60 Minutes executive producer Bill Owens and CBS News and Stations head Wendy McMahon. Both individuals stated they left voluntarily, albeit expressing profound disagreements over the company's handling of the situation.
"It's become evident that the company and I disagree on our respective paths forward," McMahon informed her staff upon announcing her departure. Owens echoed similar sentiments, telling his team, "Over the past months, it has become apparent that I won't be permitted to run the show as I always have. To make decisions independently, based on what's best for 60 Minutes and its audience. Having fiercely defended this show and its principles from all angles, I am stepping aside to allow it to progress."
