CNN’s New Owner Could Change the Game

The Pentagon chief expressed optimism that billionaire David Ellison could soon own CNN, believing it might improve the network’s coverage.

Ellison, who runs a major film studio and is close to former President Trump, intends to acquire CNN through his other company that already plans a takeover of a larger media group. The deal would require approval from the current administration.

During an extensive briefing on CNN’s coverage of the Middle‑East war, the defense secretary warned that Ellison might steer the channel to favor Trump. He labeled CNN’s reporting “fake news” and cited a U.S. military report that had misjudged the risk to a key oil route.

Ellison assured viewers on television that CNN is a strong brand and would keep its editors free to choose stories. He had previously bought another news network and hired a writer known for media criticism; that hire disrupted a program critical of Trump.

It remains unclear what role, if any, the writer will play at CNN. She may influence the channel’s tone or stay with her current network. Some speculate that a merger could follow the sale.

President Trump has expressed confidence in Ellison and his father to manage their news outlets responsibly, yet he has also complained that a show on the same network treated him poorly after a takeover.

CNN maintains confidence in its reporting and will not alter its approach. The debate highlights how ownership can shape the news that reaches viewers.