As CBS executives consider settling former President Donald Trump’s $20 billion lawsuit against 60 Minutes, the network’s flagship news program has continued to produce hard-hitting stories critical of the Trump administration.
In its latest episode, 60 Minutes highlighted the cancellation of a concert featuring young non-white musicians who were set to perform with the U.S. Marine Corps Band. The event was scrapped due to Trump’s executive order ending diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.
Veteran correspondent Scott Pelley has led six of the program’s seven investigative reports since Trump’s inauguration, covering topics such as Ukraine policy, trade tariffs, Justice Department shifts, and the firing of government watchdogs. His recent piece on the dismantling of USAID even prompted Elon Musk to call for “long prison sentences” for those involved with the show.
With 60 Minutes remaining a highly influential news source, the lawsuit raises questions about the balance between journalistic integrity and political pressure.
“This may be a lawsuit designed to intimidate, but CBS is clearly making a statement that they will not be intimidated,” said longtime news producer Tom Bettag.
Pelley’s reporting has sparked strong reactions, with conservative media critic Brent Baker accusing 60 Minutes of deliberately undermining Trump’s policies. The controversy continues as CBS weighs its legal strategy while maintaining its critical coverage.
