Power Lines with Oliver Darcy and Jon Passantino Trump Demands CNN Be Sold, Tucker Trashes CBS Chief Bari Weiss, & Politico's Trump Softball
Dec 12, 2025
Donald Trump demands CNN be sold, calling its coverage a disgrace, while discussing the troubling implications of government influence on media. The hosts critique CBS News for its 'Fox News-ification' under Bari Weiss and address Tucker Carlson’s sexist attacks on her qualifications. They also examine a controversial interview with Trump that failed to challenge his election claims. Meanwhile, Tim Pool faces financial woes as his alleged Russian funding dries up, and Ben Shapiro’s bid for Golden Globe recognition ends in disappointment.
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Trump Tries To Influence Media Ownership
- Donald Trump openly demanded CNN be sold to reshape media coverage and punish outlets he dislikes.
- Oliver Darcy and Jon Passantino view this as weaponizing government and a push toward state-aligned media control.
Ellison’s Bid Raises Influence Concerns
- David Ellison signaled willingness to align with Trump on CNN and courted Middle Eastern funds for his bid.
- Hosts warn that foreign and political influence would damage CNN's credibility under new ownership.
Use Regulators To Check Politicized Deals
- Use legal and regulatory channels to scrutinize media acquisitions tied to foreign funding or political interference.
- Jon and Oliver suggest state attorneys general and congressional investigations could slow or block problematic deals.