CBS News became the center of a firestorm this past weekend after it posted a graphic on social media showcasing merchandise associated with the "No Kings Day" protests across the United States. This event, aimed at opposing President Donald Trump, coincided with a military parade in Washington, D.C., marking the U.S. Army's 250th anniversary on Saturday. The day also observed Flag Day, commemorating the adoption of the American flag in 1777.
The network's post, which appeared on Friday before the protests, immediately drew sharp criticism from various quarters. Accusations of political bias were leveled at CBS News, with some critics questioning the appropriateness of a media organization's involvement in promoting political merchandise, according to reports by Fox News.
The "No Kings Day" demonstrations were organized in hundreds of cities as a day of defiance against what protestors consider to be authoritarian leadership. In a particularly strong statement, organizers called for Trump to be "dethroned," reflecting the intensity of opposition from some quarters.
J. Michael Waller, a senior analyst at the Center for Security Policy, criticized CBS for promoting "radical merchandise" and potentially stoking political unrest. In a similar vein, RedState contributor Bonchie ridiculed CBS News on social media, calling out the network for giving free publicity to what he described as "Chinese-made, left-wing protest merch."
Mollie Hemingway, The Federalist's editor-in-chief and Fox News contributor, went further, accusing CBS of shedding any pretense of neutrality and taking on the role of "Democrat propagandists." The debate spilled over onto social media platforms, with widespread sharing among conservative circles.
Legal and ethical implications were also brought to the forefront, with some users suggesting that CBS's actions might have violated Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regulations, deeming the move "highly unethical."
This latest incident adds to the series of controversies that have beset CBS News. The recent unexpected resignation of CBS News President and CEO Wendy McMahon, coupled with the departure of veteran 60 Minutes producer Bill Owens, has left the company in a state of internal turmoil and facing legal challenges.
Further adding to CBS's woes, Scott Pelley, 60 Minutes correspondent, appeared on CNN warning of the potentially "very damaging" repercussions of settling a lawsuit filed by President Trump against Paramount Global, CBS's parent company. Trump's legal team has rejected a $15 million settlement offer, demanding at least $25 million and a formal apology over a 60 Minutes interview with former Vice President Kamala Harris aired in October 2024.
The case remains unresolved, with sources telling Fox News Digital that the president is unwavering in his demands. As CBS News navigates these legal and reputational challenges, its credibility and journalistic standing hang in the balance. The incident has sparked a broader discussion about the role of journalism and the boundaries of media engagement in political processes.
