CNN CEO Mark Thompson Addresses Donald Trump’s White House Ban, Pending Paramount Merger In Town Hall

CNN Worldwide CEO Mark Thompson told employees on Wednesday that the network was fighting “for our fundamental rights as both journalists and citizens” following Donald Trump’s ban on White House access.

CNN, along with Politico and MS NOW, filed suit on Monday, challenging the president’s ban on their access as a violation of the First and Fifth amendments.

Thompson held a town hall for employees on Wednesday morning, and, according to a source familiar with his remarks, told them, “It’s not a fight against the president, it’s not a fight against the White House, it’s fight for our fundamental rights as both journalists and citizens.” He also said that the networks “are fighting on behalf of the American people and in many ways the world in terms of the right to hold any administration or government to account.”

The New York Times first reported on Thompson’s remarks.

A federal judge is holding a hearing on the three outlets’ lawsuit on Wednesday afternoon.

Thompson did not share much about Paramount‘s plans for the network, indicating that the new owner had not revealed what they want to do. He also told employees that he wants to “stay if Paramount finds me useful.” He also warned of assuming that the Paramount takeover meant that it would merge with CBS News.

Thompson joined CNN in 2023, and has embarked on an effort to integrate its linear and digital operations, as well as launch a new streaming option via CNN All Access.

Following a settlement on Monday of a state attorneys general lawsuit challenging the merger of Paramount with Warner Bros. Discovery, the two companies are expected to close the transaction around Oct. 1. A federal judge will hold a hearing on Thursday on a proposed consent decree.

When completed, Paramount will be the fourth parent company to CNN in the past decade.