CBS News Spending $10,000 Daily on Security for New Editor Amid 100 Layoffs

CBS News has been spending $10,000 daily on a security detail for its new Editor-in-Chief Bari Weiss, who is accompanied by eight bodyguards and transported in a convoy of SUVs. This security expense has sparked controversy amid a significant cost-cutting campaign by CBS parent Paramount, which includes layoffs affecting around 100 employees and the elimination of several units and shows. Weiss, a former New York Times opinion writer and founder of the Free Press newsletter, took over the news division despite having little traditional news experience, making her a polarizing figure within the network. The layoffs have impacted staff across all levels, including prominent contributors like Lisa Ling, while speculation surrounds the potential non-renewal of longtime host Gayle King's contract. Weiss's strong Zionist stance is thought to be a factor behind the heavy security detail, especially following high-profile assassinations of media personalities. Paramount's chairman, David Ellison, explained the layoffs as part of addressing redundancies and realigning priorities to focus on growth.