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Pentagon Chief Slams Media, Backs CNN Leadership Change

3/14/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On March 13, 2025, Pete Hegseth, the Pentagon chief, criticized U.S. media coverage of the Iran war.
He said he would welcome David Ellison, a Trump ally, taking over CNN.
He called CNN's Iran-threat reporting fake news and ridiculous.
He noted low public support for the war and fears of higher gasoline prices.
Bipartisan lawmakers raised concerns about a Paramount and Warner Bros. merger, fearing reduced consumer choices and editorial independence.

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Story summary

On March 13, 2025, Pete Hegseth, the Pentagon chief, criticized U.S. media coverage of the Iran war.
He said he would welcome David Ellison, a Trump ally, taking over CNN.
He called CNN's Iran-threat reporting fake news and ridiculous.
He noted low public support for the war and fears of higher gasoline prices.
Bipartisan lawmakers raised concerns about a Paramount and Warner Bros. merger, fearing reduced consumer choices and editorial independence.