Executives at Paramount have delayed a civic participation initiative tied to "The Daily Show," reportedly out of concern it could draw scrutiny from the Trump administration. The decision comes as the media company navigates regulatory review for a potential acquisition and faces criticism regarding its CBS News division coverage.
The project, known as "Take A Seat," aimed to encourage individuals nationwide to run for local public office. It was designed to connect aspiring candidates with organizations providing resources and support for launching campaigns. The initiative had partnered with groups including New Politics Leadership Academy, Run For Something, and Women’s Public Leadership Network.
Paramount officials reportedly curtailed the project at the last minute. Internal assessments indicated that associations with partisan political groups carried risk at a time when the company is under review by the Federal Communications Commission and facing public criticism from figures like Donald Trump regarding coverage on CBS News.
The FCC holds oversight over Paramount's broadcast assets and would review a potential merger, such as the proposed deal with Skydance. The administration has previously raised concerns about media content and consolidation.
Sources indicate the "Take A Seat" project is not canceled entirely. Semafor reports Paramount plans to launch a version of the initiative later in May, partnering instead with HeadCount, a nonpartisan nonprofit organization. The focus will remain on helping prospective candidates identify open political positions.
The decision follows ongoing tension between the company and the administration, including a $20 billion lawsuit filed by Donald Trump against CBS News and Paramount Global. Irish Star reports the lawsuit alleges deceptive editing of a "60 Minutes" interview with Kamala Harris that aired ahead of the 2024 presidential election.
This situation is not the first instance of political considerations influencing content decisions at Paramount. Latenighter notes a previous instance in 2023 where Paramount worked to remove a Showtime episode covering Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. The current climate highlights the complex environment media companies face balancing content creation with regulatory and political pressures.
Donald Trump has publicly criticized CBS coverage. Regarding the 60 Minutes interview central to his lawsuit, he stated on social media, "The case we have against 60 Minutes, CBS, and Paramount is a true WINNER."
