CNN anchor Jim Acosta may be considering stepping away from the network after facing a significant shift in his role.
The news comes following his demotion from the coveted 10am slot, which had long been seen as a key part of his identity at the station.
This development was confirmed by CNN CEO Mark Thompson after the announcement of 200 layoffs within the network’s TV division, marking a significant change for the broadcaster.
Acosta Replaced by Wolf Blitzer and Pamela Brown at 10am Slot
As part of the recent restructuring, Acosta will be replaced in the morning slot by The Situation Room with Wolf Blitzer and Pamela Brown.
Although this shift comes as part of a broader overhaul at CNN, the precise details of Acosta’s next role remain unclear.
The New York Times reported that Acosta is in talks with network executives about transitioning to a different, yet-to-be-confirmed role.
However, sources suggest that the possibility of him moving to a late-night slot could lead him to reconsider his future at CNN altogether.
Rumors of Demotion to Midnight Slot Spark Pondering of Future Career Moves
Rumors have been circulating that Acosta might be moved to a late-night show, potentially airing between midnight and 2am.
This move is said to have led Acosta to contemplate his options, with the LA Times reporting that he is now thinking about possibly leaving the network.
A source within CNN suggested that accepting such a time slot would be Acosta’s “only path forward” at the station, sparking tension and disappointment among many within CNN.
Acosta’s High-Profile Past With Trump Contributed to the Shakeup
Acosta’s tenure at CNN has been marked by his outspoken criticism of former President Donald Trump, particularly during his first term.
Their contentious relationship reached a peak when Trump revoked Acosta’s press pass in 2018 after a heated exchange.
However, CNN fought back, suing for a breach of constitutional rights and eventually winning the right for Acosta to retain his press credentials.
While Acosta’s ratings in the 10am slot have been solid, the network’s leadership has reportedly become wary of his continued presence, especially as Trump begins his second presidential term.
CNN’s Decision to Move Acosta and Potential Fallout Among Staff
CNN’s decision to move Acosta to a less desirable time slot, sometimes referred to as the “Siberia of television,” is reportedly part of the network’s strategy to reduce the high drama surrounding Acosta’s reporting.
Sources suggest that the move to a midnight show would involve Acosta working from the Los Angeles bureau, far from his current base near Washington, D.C. This shift would also coincide with prime time on the West Coast, but insiders have made it clear that there is considerable fallout within the network.
Leaked Details Stir Tension Among CNN Executives and Staff
Reports indicate that CNN boss Mark Thompson was furious when details of the private conversations regarding Acosta’s future were leaked to the press.
There has been internal discontent, with many staffers reportedly upset by the changes, viewing the move as CNN’s way of appeasing Trump and his supporters.
Tensions are rising within the network as these shakeups continue to unfold.
The Heated Exchanges Between Acosta and Trump Defined Their Public Relationship
The history of Acosta’s public clashes with Trump is well-documented, including several viral moments that captured the attention of the nation.
One of the most memorable exchanges occurred during a press conference in 2018, where Trump told Acosta to “sit down,” before aides wrestled the microphone from his hand.
Their back-and-forth continued in later years, with Acosta often challenging the president’s statements on live television, much to Trump’s frustration.
In 2020, Acosta even defended CNN’s record of delivering the truth against Trump’s frequent accusations of “fake news.”
CNN’s Restructuring Moves Bring Longtime Anchor Wolf Blitzer Into New Role
As Acosta’s future at CNN hangs in the balance, it appears that longtime anchor Wolf Blitzer may step into a new role as part of these broader network changes.
Sources suggest that Blitzer, who is 76 years old, could take over Acosta’s previous morning timeslot as CNN reshapes its lineup and attempts to adjust to a new political and media climate under the Biden administration’s second term.
The future of Jim Acosta at CNN remains uncertain, and as tensions rise, it’s unclear whether he will embrace his new role or move on from the network entirely.
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