The Growing Influence of Bari Weiss and the Ellison Media Empire

In recent media developments, Bari Weiss has stepped into the role of editor-in-chief at CBS News after selling her publication, The Free Press, to David Ellison’s Paramount for an estimated $150 million. This transition marks a significant shift in the media landscape, particularly as the Ellisons expand their media presence, bolstered by the resources of Oracle CEO Larry Ellison. This article delves into Weiss’s career trajectory, the implications of her new role, and the broader context of the emerging Ellison media empire.

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Bari Weiss Takes the Helm at CBS News

Bari Weiss’s recent acquisition of a prominent position at CBS News evokes parallels with Erica Mindel’s role at TikTok. Mindel, who has previously served in the U.S. State Department, is tasked with developing policies against hate speech on the platform, particularly concerning antisemitic content.

The Ellison media empire isn’t merely about expanding their portfolio. It also signals a strategic expansion of Israel’s hasbara, or public relations campaign, aimed at a young demographic increasingly critical of Israeli policies. This coordinated effort seems born from a growing concern over the diminishing support for Israel among Americans, especially within progressive circles.

As highlighted in a detailed thread by GenXGirl, there exists a well-financed influence operation targeting American conservatives while attempting to recast critiques of Israel’s actions as acts of bigotry. This tactic aims to evade regulations designed to protect the American public from foreign propaganda.

Weiss’s project at CBS represents part of a larger attempt to reshape the narrative surrounding Israel, as outlined by writer Caitlin Johnstone. Many view this as an ineffectual campaign to regain favorable global perceptions, especially among the younger population who remain wary of established narratives about Israel.

Bari Weiss: A Career Path Rooted in Controversy

Weiss’s career trajectory is marked by her connections to power. Growing up in an affluent suburb and the daughter of furniture store owners, she quickly made a name for herself at Columbia University by leading campaigns against professors critical of Israel. Her rise through the journalism ranks has been swift, transitioning from Jewish media outlets to high-profile roles at places like The Wall Street Journal and then The New York Times.

Her departure from The Times in 2020 came with a calculated resignation letter highlighting the need for diverse perspectives within its pages. Weiss has since taken advantage of the political climate, founding an anti-woke organization called F.A.I.R. and establishing the University of Austin to combat what she perceives as the rising tide of censorship on university campuses.

Building an Influence and Brand

Weiss’s work with F.A.I.R. has drawn both support and criticism, particularly concerning the funding sources that include controversial figures. Tensions within the organization have also been evident as staff wrestled with its mission and direction, signaling deeper divisions within the anti-woke movement.

Weiss also launched the University of Austin amidst similar concerns about liberalism in education, a move indicative of her broader goal to foster what she considers independent thought.

Bari Weiss’s Role in The Twitter Files

Her influence extends into the realm of social media, most notably through her involvement in “The Twitter Files,” where she discussed censorship practices on the platform. Her perspective focused on the allegations of shadowbanning content, a point of contention in the ongoing debate over free speech and moderation online.

Weiss and her colleagues have drawn mixed reactions for their work, with some calling it a significant exposure of censorship while others claim it is merely an aspect of routine content moderation.

The Free Press: A New Media Powerhouse

Weiss’s latest venture, The Free Press, has garnered over a million subscribers, positioning itself as a voice for those disillusioned with mainstream media narratives, particularly in the context of Israel’s portrayal during the Israel-Hamas conflict. By tackling what she sees as bias in reporting, The Free Press aims to resonate with audiences that feel marginalized by traditional outlets.

Her efforts to highlight discrepancies in reporting, particularly regarding sensitive topics like the conflict in Gaza, have made her a polarizing figure but have undeniably heightened her profile in media circles.

The Tragic Legacy of Dr. Refaat Alareer

A darker aspect of Weiss’s influence emerged following the tragic death of Palestinian poet Dr. Refaat Alareer due to an airstrike allegedly incited by Weiss’s online rhetoric. His life and work have left a profound impact on many, and the circumstances surrounding his death underscore the dangers of public discourse in a highly charged political realm.

Conclusion

Bari Weiss’s ascent in the media landscape ties into a broader narrative involving strategic media expansions and cultural conflicts. As she leads CBS News into a new era, the implications of her influence extend beyond journalism, affecting perceptions and discussions around crucial global issues. Only time will tell the extent to which her efforts succeed in reshaping narratives and public opinion.