Jim Acosta, the prominent CNN correspondent recognized for his assertive questioning style, is set to depart from the network following significant scheduling changes that eliminated his daytime anchoring role. Acosta announced this development during the close of his program on Tuesday, urging viewers to “hold power to account” and asserting that it is never acceptable to submit to tyranny. His exit was first reported in the Status newsletter.
In a statement, CNN commended Acosta for his nearly two-decade career at the network, highlighting his commitment to upholding the First Amendment and journalistic freedoms. The network expressed gratitude for his dedication and commitment, wishing him success in his future endeavors.
Despite CNN’s willingness to retain Acosta in a new role, he was proposed for late-night hours, specifically between midnight and 2 a.m. This time slot is typically reserved for rebroadcasts catering to west coast viewers but was seen as a potential means to shift him away from the network’s main programming.
Former President Trump reacted to Acosta’s departure with a social media post, labeling it “good news” and referring to Acosta as “one of the worst and most dishonest reporters in journalistic history.”
Looking ahead, Acosta is anticipated to explore new ventures, potentially launching his own digital subscription platform to showcase his interviews and accountability reporting. This move comes as numerous journalists are seeking alternative avenues, moving away from traditional media outlets. For example, Jennifer Rubin recently departed The Washington Post to start her own publication, while others like Mehdi Hasan and Don Lemon have also embarked on independent digital projects.
Acosta has already made strides in this direction, having shared a link to a new Substack outlet via social media. He aims to redefine his journalistic approach in a landscape that promotes independent voices. This trend among journalists suggests a growing desire for autonomy and an innovative approach to news media, offering audiences alternatives to mainstream outlets.
In a statement on his show, Acosta underscored his belief in journalism as “a public service,” reflecting a commitment to maintaining integrity and accountability in reporting. As Acosta transitions to this new chapter, his dedication to journalistic principles remains steadfast, promising to engage audiences in new and meaningful ways.
This shift signifies a hopeful outlook for Acosta’s future endeavors, as he joins a wave of journalists carving out unique paths amidst the dynamic landscape of modern media.