The news segment on Trump administration deportations that was originally scheduled to air on “60 Minutes” but was removed last month due to internal disagreements has now been broadcast. Correspondent Sharyn Alfonsi’s piece focused on deportees sent to El Salvador’s CECOT prison, known for its harsh conditions. Although the segment did not feature interviews with Trump administration officials, it included statements from the White House and Department of Homeland Security that were not part of the original version.
Alfonsi expressed frustration over the removal of her story, stating that it was a political decision rather than an editorial one. The segment that aired on Sunday revealed that despite multiple attempts to interview key administration officials on camera, they declined the requests, leading to accusations of a deliberate strategy to suppress the story.
CBS News emphasized its commitment to airing the CECOT piece and highlighted the importance of independent storytelling. While the controversy surrounding the initial removal of the story sparked criticism, the network clarified that the decision was not influenced by political pressure.
The broadcast also featured a report on ICE enforcement efforts by Cecilia Vega. The conflict over the CECOT story highlighted tensions within the news organization, with some questioning the influence of new corporate leadership on editorial decisions.
The episode’s content remained largely unchanged, with Alfonsi’s updated introduction referencing a recent U.S. raid involving the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. The administration provided additional information and photos related to the migrants sent to El Salvador, including details on their tattoos.
Since Bari Weiss’s appointment as CBS News editor-in-chief, there has been increased visibility of Trump administration officials on the network. The relationship between CBS and the administration has evolved, with instances of contentious interactions over interview content and editing practices. Trump’s past objections to interview edits were also highlighted in the context of the network’s evolving dynamics with the administration.