CNN Reportedly Acquired by 'MAGA Ally'
A recent media report claims that CNN has been acquired by a political ally of the MAGA movement, raising questions about the network's future editorial independence. The same report suggests that strategic moves are also "gutting" fellow network CBS, signaling a potential major realignment in the U.S. media landscape.
In a significant media shake-up, Paramount Skydance, led by CEO David Ellison, has emerged as the frontrunner to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery, the parent company of CNN. This development follows Netflix's decision to withdraw its own $83 billion bid for the media giant's studio and streaming assets. The potential acquisition places CNN under the control of the Ellison family, who are known for their ties to the MAGA movement and former President Donald Trump. David Ellison's father is Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison, a prominent financial supporter of Donald Trump. The prospect of the Ellisons controlling CNN has raised concerns about the network's future editorial direction, especially given recent changes at another major news network they now own. Paramount, which owns CBS, was acquired by Skydance Media in a deal approved by federal regulators in July 2025. Following the acquisition, a series of moves at CBS News were seen by some as concessions to the Trump administration. These included the settlement of a lawsuit filed by Trump against the network and the appointment of journalist Bari Weiss as editor-in-chief of CBS News. Discussions have reportedly taken place between Larry Ellison and the White House regarding potential programming changes at CNN should the acquisition go through. These conversations allegedly included the possible removal of on-air personalities who have been critical of Donald Trump. The term "gutting" has been used by critics to describe the perceived shift in editorial stance and personnel changes at CBS under its new ownership.
