CBS News has announced a major policy change after being caught selectively editing an interview with Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem on Face the Nation. The network admitted it would now only air live or live-to-tape interviews “subject to national security or legal restrictions,” promising viewers the full, unedited version will be broadcast.
The reversal followed backlash after CBS cut a critical 24-second portion of Noem’s interview in which she detailed allegations against Kilmar Abrego Garcia, an illegal alien accused of domestic violence, human trafficking, and child exploitation. CBS claimed the edit was for time, but critics argued it conveniently omitted damaging information about Biden’s border failures.
Initially, CBS defended the decision, insisting the interview “met all CBS News standards” and pointing to the full version posted online. But the network has faced mounting criticism for a pattern of manipulative editing. Just two months earlier, CBS agreed to pay President Donald Trump $16 million to settle a lawsuit over 60 Minutes selectively editing coverage of Kamala Harris to protect her failing campaign.
The controversy highlights long-standing distrust in legacy media. For years, outlets like CBS have been accused of pushing hoaxes and false narratives—from the Russia collusion conspiracy and the Covington Catholic smear to the Hunter Biden laptop cover-up and claims that border agents whipped migrants. Each scandal has eroded public confidence while fueling the growth of alternative media.
By editing out Noem’s remarks, critics argue CBS once again prioritized political optics over truth, reinforcing the perception that corporate media operates as an extension of the Democratic Party. Whether this new policy will restore credibility remains doubtful. As CBS faces declining ratings and legal battles, its selective reporting has only widened the gap between mainstream outlets and Americans seeking unfiltered news.
