60 Minutes Executive Producer Resigns Amid Trump Pressure

Bill Owens, the executive producer of 60 Minutes, announced his resignation, citing a loss of journalistic independence due to attacks on the program by Donald Trump. He stated that he could no longer run the show independently, making decisions based on what was best for the program and its audience. Owens emphasized his defense of the show and its principles before stepping down.

The program, which has had only three executive producers in its 57-year history, has faced increasing pressure from Trump. This pressure intensified after Trump sued CBS News for a substantial amount and made accusations of unlawful behavior against the show. Sources indicated that the staff and executives were surprised and disheartened by Owens' departure, particularly given the already challenging environment at the news program.

Staff members expressed concern that the company might settle the lawsuit, even though they believed the network had done nothing wrong. They appreciated Owens' resistance to pressure from Trump and corporate interests. Meanwhile, the controlling shareholder of CBS's parent company, Shari Redstone, is seeking approval from the Trump administration for a sale of her company.

Redstone has reportedly favored settling Trump's lawsuit, which stems from a disputed interview. Owens had previously stated he would not apologize as part of any settlement, and legal experts have deemed the lawsuit without merit. Many CBS News staff members view a settlement as a concession to Trump's complaints about editorial judgment.

Owens stated that 60 Minutes would continue to cover the new administration and future administrations, emphasizing the show's importance. Ben Bogardus, an associate professor of journalism, viewed Owens' resignation as an act of journalistic courage and integrity, but also warned of potential negative consequences for the industry. He noted that it could highlight presidential interference in journalism and potentially encourage further attacks on independent reporting.

Owens' departure is seen as the continuation of a larger struggle. Owens began his career at CBS as a summer intern in 1988 and became the executive producer of 60 Minutes in 2019. The show has been a frequent target of Trump's criticism, including a terminated interview and a refusal to appear on the show during the 2024 campaign. Trump has accused 60 Minutes of fraudulent reporting without providing evidence and has sought to influence CBS's broadcast license.

Redstone recently expressed concerns about a 60 Minutes story, and a longtime CBS producer was subsequently appointed to a new role overseeing journalistic standards. CBS News President Wendy McMahon expressed her commitment to 60 Minutes and its mission, praising Owens' work and support.