ABC News announced on Tuesday that it would not be renewing the contract of veteran correspondent Terry Moran after he made controversial remarks on social media, labeling former President Trump and a senior White House official as “world-class” haters. The network emphasized its commitment to upholding standards of objectivity and professionalism in journalism, stating that Moran’s comments constituted a violation of these principles.
Moran, who has been a prominent figure at ABC for nearly three decades, has held various roles including foreign correspondent and chief White House correspondent. His career trajectory had even led him to be considered for a top anchoring role akin to the late Peter Jennings. Recently, he gained respect for his informative interview with Trump, where he pressed the president on unfounded claims related to immigration policies.
Despite his track record, Moran’s recent social media post drew swift backlash from White House officials, including Vice President JD Vance and Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, who called his comments unacceptable and demanded action from ABC. While Moran later deleted the post, his failure to retract his statements contributed to the decision for his dismissal.
This incident echoes broader discussions in media about the intersection of journalistic integrity and the pressures exerted by political figures. Some colleagues and media commentators suggest that although Moran’s comments were inappropriate, the pressure from the administration on a news outlet raises important concerns regarding censorship. Former colleagues described him as a careful reporter who often approached his coverage with a more conservative perspective, which adds to the surprising nature of this controversy.
ABC News has reaffirmed its dedication to providing fair and trusted journalism, even in light of internal disagreements over Moran’s treatment. The situation serves as a reminder of the delicate balance journalists must maintain between personal opinions and professional responsibilities, especially in today’s polarized political climate.