United StatesOwnership & classification
Founded: 1927
Ownership
CBS News is the news division of the CBS network, which originated in 1927 as United Independent Broadcasters and was renamed the Columbia Broadcasting System in 1928-1929; CBS News as a service dates to around 1929. As of August 2025 CBS is owned by Paramount Skydance, the company formed when David Ellison's Skydance Media merged with Paramount Global (and Shari Redstone's National Amusements). Control now rests with the Ellison family and their investment partners through Paramount Skydance.
Funding
CBS News is financed commercially via broadcast and streaming advertising, affiliate/carriage fees and subscriptions to Paramount's streaming services, all inside the publicly traded parent. It receives no state or party money.
Affiliation & stance
CBS News is owned by a commercial, publicly traded corporation rather than any party or government, so it is INDEPENDENT. After the 2025 Skydance takeover, new ownership made editorially conservative-leaning changes (acquiring The Free Press and naming Bari Weiss editor-in-chief), but this is private-owner influence, not party/state control.
Editorial lean
- Our estimate
- Lean Progressive
- Measured from coverage
- Centerbased on 564
77/100
Factual
75/100
Objective
700
Articles
692
reports
Factual: How accurately its articles report the facts, judged against primary sources and the cross-outlet consensus. Only articles that cite their sources are counted.
Objective: How neutral the writing is — whether reporting keeps the writer’s own preferences and opinions out of the article.
Recent coverage
From the ashes arise origami koi
The article discusses the story of Robert Lang, a physicist and origami artist who combined mathematics and art to create intricate origami designs. In 2025, the Altadena wildfire destroyed his home and much of his life's work. Despite this loss, Lang decided to recreate his designs, and the origami community supported him in this endeavor. The piece highlights his journey of resilience and the collaborative spirit within the origami community.
Hawk Fire Evacuation Map as Nevada Declares State of Emergency
Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo declared a state of emergency in Washoe County due to the rapidly spreading Hawk Fire, which is threatening homes and structures near Verdi and the Somersett community. The fire, first reported on August 22, grew significantly by Saturday afternoon, reaching an estimated 10,500 acres. Over 400 personnel from local, state, and federal agencies were deployed to combat the blaze, which was fueled by strong winds, low humidity, and dry vegetation. Evacuation orders were expanded, with mandatory evacuations issued for parts of Somersett and other nearby areas. An evacuation shelter was set up at the Reno-Sparks Convention Center. The fire is part of a larger pattern of wildfires affecting the region, including the Bug Fire in California, which has raised concerns about regional smoke impacts and resource allocation.
Luna Parc: A home, and an eclectic canvas
The article describes the artistic home and land of Ricky Boscarino, an artist who has transformed his New Jersey residence into a vibrant, eclectic space known as Luna Parc. Over 35 years, Boscarino has created a unique environment featuring sculptures, ceramics, mosaics, and other creative works. The piece highlights the visual appeal and creativity of his outdoor 'electric garden,' offering a glimpse into his personal artistic expression. No political figures, policies, or contentious issues are discussed, making this a purely cultural and artistic profile.
The explosion of ticks and Alpha-gal syndrome
The article discusses the increasing prevalence of ticks and the associated health risks, particularly focusing on Alpha-gal syndrome. Ticks are spreading into new areas of the United States, leading to a rise in emergency room visits for tick-related issues. Alpha-gal syndrome, caused by a tick bite, results in severe allergies to mammalian meats and can cause symptoms ranging from rashes to anaphylactic shock. Residents of Martha's Vineyard, such as Adriana Stimola and Ben DeForest, describe how the condition has impacted their daily lives, limiting social interactions and outdoor activities. Experts like Sam Telford III and Thomas Mather provide insights into the growing threat posed by ticks and the challenges faced by those affected.
The explosion of ticks and Alpha-gal syndrome
This year, there has been a significant increase in emergency room visits related to tick bites, coinciding with a growing concern over Alpha-gal syndrome (AGS). AGS is a condition where a single bite from a lone star tick can cause severe allergies to red meat. CBS News correspondent David Pogue examines how residents of Martha Vineyard are dealing with this emerging health issue and speaks with experts about effective strategies for avoiding tick bites.
Tropical Storm Moke advances toward Hawaii as winds strengthen
Tropical Storm Moke is approaching Hawaii, threatening to bring heavy rainfall and strong winds to the Big Island, which is still recovering from damage caused by Hurricane Lala. Forming in the Pacific Ocean, Moke is currently 470 miles southeast of Hilo and moving west-northwest at 12 mph. The National Hurricane Center reports maximum sustained winds of 50 mph. While Moke is expected to pass south of a direct hit, the Big Island will experience significant rain and wind, particularly on the windward and southeast sides. Forecasters predict rainfall of 5 to 10 inches on these areas, with isolated spots seeing up to 15 inches. Officials are urging residents to prepare for potential flooding, mudslides, and dangerous conditions. Although no coastal watches or warnings are active, 9,000 customers remain without power, and state officials have held a news conference to address concerns.
Eight US States Doug Ford Wants Canada To Target With Tariffs
Ontario Premier Doug Ford has suggested that eight U.S. states, Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Iowa, Missouri, Montana, Texas, and Wisconsin, should face additional retaliatory tariffs as part of a trade dispute with the United States. Ford argued these states are politically significant to the current U.S. administration's support base. The call came after trade negotiations between the U.S. and Canada collapsed, leading to the suspension of talks by Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney. In response, the U.S. imposed a 50% tariff on many Canadian goods, affecting nearly $20 billion in imports. Carney criticized the move as a 'miscalculation,' noting the deep economic ties between the two nations. Ford emphasized that Ontario would use all available tools to retaliate, urging other provinces to follow suit. Meanwhile, Republican Senator Susan Collins expressed concern that the trade tensions could harm businesses in her home state.
Sprouts Recalled After 55 Illnesses Reported in 15 States
Sprouts Inc. has issued a recall of certain alfalfa sprouts after an outbreak of E. coli and Salmonella infections was linked to 55 illnesses across 15 U.S. states. The recall was announced on August 22 by Everything Sprouts LLC, with the FDA posting the notice to inform the public. Illnesses began between May 31 and August 8, with four individuals hospitalized and no fatalities reported as of August 21. The affected products include specific lots of alfalfa sprouts and mixes sold under the Everything Sprouts and Calco brands, distributed between May 27 and August 21 to stores in Minnesota and Wisconsin. The CDC reports 46 cases of STEC infection, seven cases of Salmonella, and two cases involving both pathogens. Epidemiological data indicates a strong link between the sprouts and the illnesses, though the exact source of contamination is still under investigation. Consumers are advised to discard the products and thoroughly clean any surfaces they may have contacted.
Drastic water cuts issued for California, Nevada and Arizona from Colorado River
Federal officials have announced significant water cutbacks for California, Nevada, and Arizona starting in 2027, requiring these states to reduce annual water usage by 1.25 million acre-feet over two years. Arizona faces the largest reductions, while upstream states like Colorado and Mexico also implement cuts under a U.S.-Mexico treaty. The decision comes amid a 26-year drought, record-low snowpack, and declining reservoir levels such as Lake Mead and Lake Powell, which are critical for hydropower and water supply. Officials emphasize the need for continued cooperation among the seven Colorado River Basin states, as current agreements are set to expire in October 2026. While some state representatives praise the agreement for providing short-term stability, they acknowledge it is not a long-term solution.
Pentagon moves to fire publisher and editor of Stars and Stripes
The Pentagon has announced plans to terminate the publisher and editor-in-chief of Stars and Stripes, a U.S. military-funded news outlet, along with a Middle East reporter, citing insubordination. The firings relate to interviews these individuals gave to CBS News for a 'CBS Sunday Morning' segment in July, where they expressed concerns about Pentagon-imposed censorship. Publisher Max Lederer and Editor-in-Chief Erik Slavin were given five days to appeal their dismissals, while reporter Lara Korte also received termination notice. Slavin stated that his firing was based on comments about maintaining editorial independence, which he claims is legally mandated. Korte criticized the firings as harmful to military communities and emphasized her commitment to independent journalism. A Defense Department spokesperson did not comment, and White House adviser Stephen Miller suggested the firings were justified. Stars and Stripes later published an open letter from a newly appointed military deputy, alleging lack of communication.
How a retiree found a new purpose delivering tables to families in need
The article discusses the story of Brian Unger, a Georgia retiree who has started a new career by building tables for families in need. This initiative reflects his desire to contribute to his community after retirement, focusing on providing practical support to those facing financial difficulties.
Laptop battery sparks fire on American Airlines flight
A laptop battery ignited onboard an American Airlines flight on Friday, resulting in one passenger requiring medical attention. The incident occurred during the flight, prompting safety checks and emergency protocols. No further details were provided regarding the cause of the fire or the extent of the damage. Authorities have not yet released additional information about the event.
Frustration mounts for thousands still without power after deadly Indiana storms
Thousands of residents in Gary, Indiana remain without power following severe storms that killed at least seven people and displaced around 1,000. The storms, which began on August 11, caused widespread flooding and knocked out electricity for over half the city's residents. Many rely on a community center for basic needs like food and cooling. A class-action lawsuit has been filed against NIPSCO, the regional utility provider, accusing it of failing to maintain power lines by trimming vegetation, which allegedly led to power outages. NIPSCO denies the claims, stating its vegetation management spending has increased significantly. Governor Mike Braun has sought federal disaster aid to address the estimated $5 billion in damages.