President Donald Trump has launched a $20 billion lawsuit against CBS News over a controversial “60 Minutes” segment, accusing the network of intentionally favoring then-Vice President Kamala Harris during the 2024 election campaign.
The legal action stems from an interview aired by the program that Trump claims was deceptively edited to paint his administration in a negative light while giving Harris an advantage. The episode drew additional backlash for drawing comparisons between Trump’s leadership style and that of a mob boss, focusing particularly on his use of executive orders targeting law firms involved in legal probes against him.
Supporters of the former president argue that the segment lacked fair representation and failed to present any opposing views. Critics within media circles have raised concerns over the objectivity of the piece, further complicating the reputation of the long-running program.
As the lawsuit gains momentum, CBS News’ parent company, Paramount Global, is reportedly weighing a potential settlement, particularly as it navigates a high-stakes merger with Skydance Media. The situation was further intensified by the resignation of “60 Minutes” executive producer Bill Owens, who cited increasing corporate interference as a reason for his departure.
In a surprising twist, the segment at the center of the legal fight has received an Emmy nomination, adding another layer to the ongoing clash between political power, media influence, and corporate maneuvering.