CBS News in Crisis: Staff Turmoil Amid $8.4 Billion Merger and $20 Billion Lawsuit

CBS News is currently facing a significant internal crisis, with staff morale plummeting and fears of mass layoffs circulating throughout the organization. According to reports from the Daily Mail, employees have been seen crying in hallways, engaging in disputes over story coverage and seating arrangements, and urgently updating their resumes. This turmoil spans across the network, from the flagship Sunday news show 60 Minutes to CBS Mornings, and is attributed to an impending $8.4 billion merger and a $20 billion lawsuit.

The atmosphere within CBS News has been described as a “bloodbath,” with employees expressing anxiety over potential job cuts. Insiders have reported that Paramount Global, CBS’s parent company, is preparing to slash $500 million in costs ahead of the merger with Skydance Media, amidst declining ratings. Additionally, a $20 billion lawsuit filed by President Donald Trump against 60 Minutes over alleged deceptive editing of a Kamala Harris interview has further exacerbated tensions. Speculation is rife about a potential $50 million settlement, which could influence the Trump administration’s review of CBS’s broadcast license renewal.

The resignation of CBS News CEO Wendy McMahon on May 19, 2025, has intensified the crisis. McMahon cited irreconcilable differences with company leadership regarding the network’s future direction. Her departure follows the resignation of longtime 60 Minutes executive producer Bill Owens, who expressed concerns over the erosion of journalistic independence. Correspondent Scott Pelley has also publicly criticized the increasing corporate influence on editorial decisions.

The situation has drawn scrutiny from U.S. senators, including Elizabeth Warren, Bernie Sanders, and Ron Wyden, who have questioned Paramount’s efforts to settle the lawsuit with Trump. They expressed concerns that such a settlement could constitute bribery, potentially aimed at securing regulatory approval for the merger. The senators have called for transparency from Paramount and its chair, Shari Redstone, regarding the settlement negotiations.

As CBS News navigates this challenging period, the network’s leadership faces the delicate task of balancing corporate interests with journalistic integrity. The outcome of the merger and lawsuit, along with the decisions made in the coming weeks, will significantly impact the future of CBS News and its role in American journalism.