CBS News Editor-in-Chief Bari Weiss says restoring trust in journalism matters more than individual ratings figures. Speaking at the WTF Summit, Weiss discussed her priorities and the attention surrounding 60 Minutes.
What We Know: Weiss made the comments during a conversation with Jessica Lessin, CEO and editor-in-chief of The Information. The discussion centered on Weiss’ approach to leading CBS News and her broader goals for journalism. Weiss said she views her role as helping restore trust in the industry. However, she pushed back on the emphasis some observers place on the ratings for 60 Minutes, suggesting that individual audience figures aren’t her primary concern.
What They Said: “I could never build anything if I were focused on the precise number of people that happen to tune in to the second feature on 60 Minutes on a given Sunday.” -Bari Weiss
What Remains Unclear: Weiss didn’t outline specific audience targets for 60 Minutes or explain how CBS News will measure progress in restoring public trust. It also remains unclear how the network will balance its broader editorial priorities with the commercial demands of a high-profile news program. Ratings remain one measure of a broadcast’s performance, even as trust and credibility can prove more difficult to quantify.
What It Means: Weiss’ comments suggest she wants CBS News to prioritize long-term credibility over short-term audience fluctuations. Although 60 Minutes remains a prominent television news franchise, her remarks indicate that she doesn’t view individual segment ratings as the defining measure of success. As she shapes the network’s direction, her emphasis on trust could influence how CBS News evaluates its journalism and communicates its priorities.
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