entertainment
Trump Comments on CNN's Direction and Legacy of Founder Ted Turner
Donald Trump expressed his views on the current state of CNN, suggesting that its founder, Ted Turner, would have been displeased with its perceived political shift. He also mentioned Larry and Carol Ellison as potential figures to restore the network's original standing, according to the Hollywood Reporter.
5/8/2026, 7:46:30 PM
Former President Donald Trump recently shared his perspectives on the evolution of the Cable News Network (CNN) and the vision of its late founder, Ted Turner. In his remarks, Trump indicated that Turner, who established the groundbreaking 24-hour news channel, would have been deeply disheartened by what he described as the network's move towards a "woke" ideology.
Turner, a prominent media mogul credited with creating CNN and other Turner Broadcasting properties, passed away on Wednesday at the age of 87. Trump’s commentary, reported by the Hollywood Reporter, came as part of a broader discussion about media impartiality and the direction of news organizations.
Trump further proposed that Larry Ellison, the co-founder of Oracle, and his wife, Carol Ellison, might be instrumental in revitalizing CNN's reputation. He suggested that their involvement could help reinstate the network's "credibility and glory," implying a belief that CNN has strayed from its foundational principles.
The former president has frequently been a vocal critic of various media outlets, including CNN, often expressing his dissatisfaction with their coverage. His recent statements underscore his ongoing interest in the media landscape and his perspective on what constitutes balanced and impartial reporting.
Ted Turner’s legacy in the media world is significant, as he pioneered the concept of a dedicated 24-hour news channel, transforming how information was disseminated globally. His vision for CNN was to provide objective news coverage, a standard that Trump now suggests has been compromised.
Trump's musings about the Ellisons bringing back the network's former stature suggest a desire for a return to what he perceives as a more neutral and widely respected journalistic approach. The remarks highlight the ongoing debate surrounding media bias and the future of news consumption in a rapidly changing environment.