Media News Daily: Top Stories for 10/28/2025

CNN Denies Report It Softened Coverage Following Trump White House Meeting

CNN is pushing back on a report by Status that CEO Mark Thompson urged the network to ease coverage of President Trump’s controversial White House renovations after a meeting with administration officials. While CNN confirmed Thompson’s visit, reportedly to discuss its new streaming platform, it called the allegations “reckless and irresponsible conjecture.” The report claimed that Thompson told staff the audience wasn’t engaged in the East Wing demolition story, a claim that has drawn criticism from historians. The backdrop includes Warner Bros. Discovery’s potential merger, requiring Trump administration approval. (Read More) (The Hill Rating)

MSNBC Rebrands as ‘MS NOW’ in Major Network Shift

MSNBC will officially rebrand as “MS NOW” on November 15, ending nearly 30 years under the NBC News identity. The rebrand, under the tagline “Same Mission. New Name,” follows a split from NBC’s on-air resources and a new global partnership with Sky News. The move is part of Comcast’s broader strategy to launch Versant, a new media division that houses MS NOW and CNBC. Despite criticism and confusion over the name, leadership is pressing ahead, with talent like Rachel Maddow promoting the change in new promos. (Read More) (The Desk Rating)

John Dickerson Announces Departure from CBS at Year’s End

Veteran political journalist John Dickerson revealed he will leave CBS at the end of 2025 after 16 years at the network. The announcement follows sweeping changes at CBS, including the appointment of Bari Weiss as top editor under new owner David Ellison. Ellison, whose father is Trump ally Larry Ellison, has indicated a shift in editorial direction for CBS. Dickerson expressed gratitude to colleagues and viewers in his farewell, capping a career that included moderating debates and high-profile interviews. (Read More) (The Hill Rating)