What Was Terry Moran Thinking?

In his first interview since being ousted from ABC News, longtime TV correspondent Terry Moran opened up about the now-infamous social media post that led to his departure from the network. The post, published on X (formerly Twitter) in June, sharply criticized the Trump administration and its officials, particularly White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller. Moran, now a popular voice on Substack, explained why he stood by his remarks, revealing the thought process behind his controversial statement, his decision to leave ABC News, and his future plans in journalism.

The Outburst that Shocked the Media World

Moran, 65, was dismissed from ABC News after his social media post on June 8, 2023, where he described Stephen Miller as a “world-class hater,” accusing him of “eating his hate” as “spiritual nourishment.” The post also criticized President Donald Trump, whom Moran had interviewed in the Oval Office just weeks earlier. Moran’s colleagues at ABC were stunned, and the post immediately sparked a wave of controversy. Critics on the right decried it as an unprofessional attack, while left-leaning supporters praised his candidness in assessing the Trump administration.

Reflecting on that fateful moment, Moran was candid. “It wasn’t a drunk tweet,” he said with a grin during a Zoom interview. Moran explained that his decision to post came after a quiet night of reflection. “I was thinking about our country, what’s happening, and just turning it over in my mind,” Moran said. A family dinner and a movie followed, but his thoughts still lingered on the state of American politics. After writing the post, Moran noted, “I said, ‘That’s true.’”

The Fallout: Suspension and Dispute Over Renewal

The post didn’t just spark a brief public outcry—it cost Moran his job at ABC News, which cited a “clear violation of ABC News policies” and decided not to renew his contract. ABC News, however, framed it as a mere formality since Moran’s contract was set to expire. Moran disputed this account, claiming that ABC News was backing out of a pre-existing “oral agreement” to renew his contract for three more years. He is currently in negotiations with the network over the terms of his exit and severance.

For Moran, the suspension came as a shock. He initially didn’t realize the gravity of the situation until ABC News informed him of his suspension. “I thought it would hit a nerve, maybe,” he admitted. “But I didn’t realize the consequences until it happened.”

The Bigger Picture: Media Bias and Integrity

When asked about the broader implications of his comments, Moran remained steadfast in his beliefs. “I don’t think you should ever regret telling the truth. And I don’t,” he said. His comments were a candid reflection of his thoughts about the Trump administration, but Moran’s critics questioned whether he had crossed a line as a journalist. Veteran journalists and media analysts pointed out that Moran’s remarks, while undoubtedly true for him, blurred the line between impartial reporting and personal opinion.

In particular, critics on the right accused Moran’s post of giving ammunition to those who claim mainstream media outlets, like ABC News, are biased against conservatives. Vice President JD Vance condemned the post as a “vile smear” and demanded an apology from ABC. Moran, however, refused to apologize. He noted that his statement was personal and rooted in a deep reflection on the current political climate, which he felt had turned increasingly divisive under the Trump administration.

The New Chapter: Moving to Substack

After his departure from ABC News, Moran quickly turned to Substack, where he began publishing his thoughts and reflections. Substack, a platform known for independent journalism, has gained popularity among writers and reporters who have been ousted or chosen to leave traditional media outlets. Moran’s subscriber base quickly ballooned to over 90,000 readers, and he has gained considerable attention for his uncensored, freewheeling posts.

Moran’s posts, which are currently free to read, have drawn praise for their honesty and forthrightness. He has shared personal stories, such as his past coverage of Trump’s unsubstantiated allegations about Haitian immigrants eating household pets in Springfield, Ohio. Moran sees Substack as a space where he can continue to share his insights without the constraints of network policies or editorial oversight. “I’m certainly free to speak my mind,” Moran said, reveling in the newfound freedom Substack offers.

The platform has allowed him to speak directly to his audience, bypassing the filters of mainstream media. Moran’s quick rise on Substack mirrors a broader trend of veteran journalists finding new opportunities for expression outside traditional outlets. For Moran, Substack has become a home for his thoughts on media bias, the current political landscape, and his reflections on the world.

The Legacy of a Journalist

Moran’s departure from ABC News has left some wondering what it means for the future of mainstream journalism, especially in an era where the lines between personal opinion and professional reporting have become increasingly blurred. Moran’s willingness to take a public stand, despite the consequences, is both a reflection of his journalistic integrity and his desire to remain true to himself.

For Moran, the experience has been a bittersweet one. While his ousting from ABC News was undoubtedly painful, it has opened up new opportunities for him to continue doing what he loves—reporting on the issues that matter most to him. His shift to Substack, where he can be more unfiltered and personal in his commentary, has allowed him to reassert control over his career and connect with a new generation of readers who share his political views.

While some have criticized Moran’s actions, calling them unprofessional or biased, others have lauded his bravery for speaking out against what he saw as the moral failings of the Trump administration. His stance, controversial as it may be, speaks to the growing tension in the media industry about the role of journalists in today’s political climate.

Conclusion: A New Era for Terry Moran

Terry Moran’s journey from mainstream media correspondent to Substack journalist marks a new chapter in his career. His refusal to back down from his personal convictions, despite the fallout, is a testament to his commitment to truth and integrity. While his departure from ABC News was dramatic, Moran’s newfound platform on Substack offers him the opportunity to continue sharing his insights with an eager audience. As the media landscape continues to evolve, Moran’s story will serve as a reminder of the importance of staying true to oneself, even when the consequences are high.