CNN Struggles with Ratings Amid Controversy

CNN is grappling with significant viewer loss, particularly since the November 2022 election, with reports indicating a 52% drop in primetime viewership since Trump's presidency began. Insiders suggest that decisions such as hosting a town hall with Trump and not fact-checking him during debates have further alienated viewers, leading to a perceived failure to meet audience expectations. Despite maintaining that it is a leader among networks, CNN's audience in the coveted 24 to 54 demographic fell by 1% this year, with only 11% of cable news viewership during prime time last month. The network is undergoing leadership changes, with former CEO Chris Licht replaced by Mark Thompson after an unsuccessful tenure aimed at broadening appeal. Additionally, CNN has launched a paywall for online subscriptions amid declining ratings, with staff expressing concerns about morale and potential layoffs. Critics attribute the declining viewership to programming choices that may have distanced potential viewers.