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Pentagon Chief Backs Ellison's CNN Bid Amid Controversy

3/14/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth expressed support for David Ellison's potential takeover of CNN.
He criticized CNN's coverage of the U.S. war with Iran, labeling the Strait of Hormuz reporting as "fake news" and "patently ridiculous."
The remarks come amid concerns over the Paramount-Warner Bros merger, which could reshape CNN's editorial direction, while Ellison claims editorial independence but fears a more conservative stance.

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Story summary

Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth expressed support for David Ellison's potential takeover of CNN.
He criticized CNN's coverage of the U.S. war with Iran, labeling the Strait of Hormuz reporting as "fake news" and "patently ridiculous."
The remarks come amid concerns over the Paramount-Warner Bros merger, which could reshape CNN's editorial direction, while Ellison claims editorial independence but fears a more conservative stance.