Paula Reid, a highly experienced correspondent from CNN, has accepted a prominent role at MS NOW, stepping in as their chief White House reporter. Her departure from CNN comes at a time of upheaval following new corporate ownership.
Previously known as CNN’s chief legal affairs correspondent, Reid’s new position begins on Thursday, as confirmed by TheWrap. This transition returns her to covering the White House during a period when President Donald Trump’s administration remains a focal point in political news.
New Role and Expectations
MS NOW’s Washington bureau chief, Sudeep Reddy, noted in a memo that Reid’s background in federal investigations and her experience with presidential administrations will be invaluable. Her role is expected to enhance the network’s investigative journalism efforts.
Reports indicate that Reid had turned down a lucrative contract extension with CNN prior to her departure, citing uncertainties about the network’s future due to ownership changes. Concerns were raised about potential shifts in leadership at CNN, including speculation surrounding CBS News editor-in-chief Bari Weiss.
Continuing Coverage of the Presidency
Despite CNN’s attempts to retain her, Reid chose to seek fresh opportunities rather than navigate the transitions within the network. In particular, she has criticized the future direction of CNN following the acquisition by Paramount Skydance.
Her move is significant, particularly as she returns to the White House beat after over five years with CNN. Before joining the network in 2021, Reid spent more than a decade at CBS News, covering significant political events, including questioning Trump during his first administration.
Impact on the News Landscape
At CNN, Reid was a leading voice on major legal issues and federal investigations, eventually becoming its chief legal affairs correspondent in 2023. Her exit represents yet another important change for CNN as it adjusts to new management.
Meanwhile, MS NOW is strengthening its presence in Washington following its split from NBC News, enhancing its independent reporting capabilities with Reid’s addition.
This change highlights the ongoing evolution within both networks, with CNN operating under new ownership while MS NOW seeks to establish a strong independent newsroom. Reid’s experience will be crucial as she covers the White House, a role she steps into beginning Thursday.
