This page hosts daily news stories about the media, social media, and the journalism industry. Get the latest Hirings and Firings, Media Transactions, Controversies, and more.
CBS and ABC Settle Trump Lawsuits, Prompt Media Ethics Concerns
Paramount, the parent company of CBS, agreed on July 2, 2025, to pay $16 million to the future Donald Trump Library to settle a lawsuit filed by President Donald Trump over editorial decisions in a 2024 interview with Kamala Harris. Despite widespread views that the lawsuit lacked merit, Paramount’s largest shareholder, Shari Redstone, yielded amid a complex merger with Skydance Media and pending FCC approvals under the Trump administration. Earlier this year, Disney settled a similar Trump lawsuit involving ABC News with a $15 million payment. Critics warn these settlements may create a chilling effect on network journalism. CBS anchor John Dickerson addressed the dilemma on air, questioning the credibility of journalism that financially compensates political figures. Read More (Nieman Lab Rating)
Vote.org Faces Fraud Allegations from Its Founder
Debra Cleaver, founder and former CEO of Vote.org, has filed complaints with multiple state attorneys general alleging financial mismanagement and donor deception by the nonprofit. The complaint alleges that the group overstated its 2024 voter registration goal, increasing it from 6 million to 8 million, without a plan, ultimately registering only 2.2 million voters. CEO Andrea Hailey is accused of poor leadership, as evidenced by her salary increase while the organization ran a $2 million deficit and laid off staff. A major donor, Mind the Gap, has since withdrawn its funding, citing administrative inefficiencies. Read More (Washington Examiner Rating)
Nextdoor Rebrands with Focus on Local Journalism
Nextdoor is shifting its strategy by incorporating content from over 3,500 local news providers in a major redesign aimed at making the platform a hub for trusted, hyperlocal information. The update includes a rotating news carousel, alerts from government sources, and an AI chatbot. CEO Nirav Tolia acknowledged the limits of citizen journalism and emphasized the need for professional reporting. The unpaid partnership with nonprofit news outlets aims to increase exposure and traffic for local media. Inspired by user engagement during recent California wildfires, the platform is betting on a renewed commitment to local news and community information. Read More (Nieman Lab Rating)
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