Media News Daily: Top Stories for 06/30/2026

Project 2029 Pushes Social Media Ban for Children Under 16

Democrats behind the new Project 2029 policy blueprint unveiled a sweeping online child safety proposal that would ban social media use for children under 16, require stronger default privacy protections, and impose new safeguards on AI chatbots. The plan also calls for narrowing Section 230 protections, allowing families to sue AI companies over chatbot-related harms, implementing bell-to-bell cellphone bans in schools, and encouraging parents to delay smartphones until age 14. The proposal arrives as Congress debates new online child safety legislation, with key disagreements remaining over platform liability provisions. Read More (The Hill Rating)

CBS, CNN and ‘60 Minutes’ Face Uncertain Future

As Paramount moves closer to acquiring Warner Bros. Discovery, major questions remain about the future leadership of CBS News, CNN, and 60 Minutes. Reporting from Poynter and The Wall Street Journal highlights ongoing uncertainty surrounding CBS News chief Bari Weiss, the future of CNN president Mark Thompson, and potential newsroom restructuring following the merger. Industry observers are also watching whether the ownership changes will reshape editorial leadership, staffing, and the long-term direction of two of America’s most influential television news organizations. Read More (Poynter Rating)

Fox News Apologizes for False China Claims

Fox News issued an on-air apology after businessman Kevin O’Leary acknowledged he had no evidence supporting claims that opponents of his proposed Utah AI data center were funded by China or the Chinese Communist Party. The network stated it was likewise unaware of any evidence backing the allegations and formally apologized for broadcasting the inaccurate claims. The correction follows criticism over remarks made during a May appearance on Mornings with Maria Bartiromo amid controversy surrounding O’Leary’s large-scale AI infrastructure project. Read More (The Hill Rating)