After nearly 18 years with CNN, anchor Jim Acosta has announced his departure from the network. Known for his confrontational reporting style, particularly during President Donald Trump’s first term, Acosta’s exit follows CNN’s recent programming changes. His 10 a.m. slot was replaced by “The Situation Room” with Wolf Blitzer and Pamela Brown, and Acosta was reportedly offered a midnight time slot, which he declined.
In his final broadcast, Acosta emphasized the importance of the press in holding power accountable and urged viewers to resist lies and fear. He highlighted a career moment questioning the Castro regime about political prisoners during President Obama’s visit to Cuba in 2016.
Acosta’s departure comes amid broader restructuring at CNN under new CEO Mark Thompson, focusing on digital services and resulting in significant layoffs. The network has seen a decline in viewership since President Trump’s re-election, prompting strategic shifts to regain audience engagement.
Reflecting on his tenure, Acosta stated, “It is never a good time to bow down to a tyrant,” urging the public to uphold truth and hope.
President Trump reacted to the news by criticizing Acosta’s performance and character.
FLASHBACK:
FULL EXCHANGE: Trump vs. @Acosta
“Put down the mic…”
“You are a rude, terrible person…” pic.twitter.com/hdnNGd2xLc— Yahoo News (@YahooNews) November 7, 2018