Bari Weiss Hires British Journalists at CBS News to Counter Groupthi 2026

Bari Weiss, the controversial media disruptor and editor-in-chief of CBS News, is making headlines again—this time for her strategic hiring of British journalists. Since her high-profile resignation from the New York Times in 2020, Weiss has positioned herself as a vocal critic of what she calls an overly woke journalistic consensus in American media. Now, she is turning to UK talent to inject what she believes is much-needed opinion and attitude diversity into US newsrooms.

Weiss's approach is not subtle. She has recently hired Trevor Phillips, a prominent British broadcaster and former chair of the Equality and Human Rights Commission, as a senior global affairs correspondent at CBS News. She also brought on Josh Boswell, an investigative reporter from the Daily Mail. These hires, according to insiders, are part of a deliberate strategy to challenge what Weiss sees as Columbia Journalism School uniformity—a reference to the dominant liberal perspective she believes stifles debate in American media.

Why British Journalists? The Strategy Behind the Hires

According to multiple sources familiar with Weiss's thinking, British journalists offer a different perspective on hot-button issues like Israel, trans rights, and political correctness. Andrew Neil, former editor of the Sunday Times, supported the move, stating that Weiss is “looking at various Brits that might add a bit of opinion/attitude diversity to US media.” Another acquaintance noted that Weiss has “very good UK connections” and is in London frequently.

A CBS News source explained the appeal bluntly: “They do the kind of things that Bari is looking for; it’s not puff pieces and kid gloves.” This suggests Weiss wants hard-hitting, unapologetic journalism that challenges the status quo—something she believes British reporters are more willing to deliver.

Key Hires and Their Backgrounds

Weiss has also met with Justin Webb, a presenter on the BBC's Today program, though no specific role was discussed. Her deputy, Charles Forelle, the CBS News managing editor, has experience working in the UK and is thought to have facilitated these connections.

Criticism and Internal Opposition

Weiss's leadership at CBS News has not been without controversy. She faces bitter internal and external opposition from staff who disagree with her editorial direction. Critics argue that her hires are an attempt to push a conservative agenda into a traditionally neutral newsroom. However, Weiss and her allies frame it as a necessary correction to “groupthink” in American journalism.

Last summer, Weiss hosted a party at the Groucho Club in London's West End, mingling with what one attendee described as “part of the heterodox world”—figures who push back against a perceived woke consensus. One invitee noted, “In the US, the political divides between left and right are very black and white. Here, things are a bit more grey.”

Impact on CBS News and US Media Landscape

This hiring spree signals a broader shift in how US news organizations are approaching diversity of thought. While traditional diversity efforts focus on race, gender, and ethnicity, Weiss is championing ideological diversity. Whether this will lead to more balanced reporting or further polarize the newsroom remains to be seen.

Some media analysts point out that British journalists often have a more skeptical, less deferential approach to authority—a trait that aligns with Weiss's vision for CBS News. However, the strategy also risks alienating viewers who prefer a more centrist or progressive perspective.

FAQ: Bari Weiss and British Journalists at CBS News

Why is Bari Weiss hiring British journalists?

Weiss believes British journalists bring a different perspective that challenges the dominant liberal consensus in US media. She views them as less likely to produce “puff pieces” and more willing to tackle controversial topics head-on.

Who are the key British hires at CBS News?

The most notable hires are Trevor Phillips, a former equality watchdog chair, and Josh Boswell, an investigative reporter from the Daily Mail. Douglas Murray, a conservative writer, writes a column for Weiss's outlet, the Free Press.

What is the reaction to Weiss's strategy?

Reaction is mixed. Supporters praise her for breaking groupthink and promoting ideological diversity. Critics accuse her of importing a conservative bias into a major news network. Internal opposition at CBS News remains significant.