ABC News Ends Relationship with Terry Moran Following Controversial Social Media Remarks
ABC News has announced it will not renew the contract of veteran correspondent Terry Moran after he posted a provocative message on social media calling President Donald Trump and senior White House advisor Stephen Miller “world-class haters.” Moran, who had been with ABC for nearly three decades, was initially suspended following the post, which he subsequently deleted.
The Incident That Sparked the Fallout
Over the weekend, Moran shared a post on X (formerly Twitter) describing Miller as a man not known for intelligence but for an “abundance of bile” and labeling both Miller and Trump as “world-class haters.” He further remarked that Trump's hatred serves merely to glorify himself, calling it his “spiritual nourishment.” These sharp comments quickly provoked backlash from Trump administration figures.
Reactions from Political Figures and ABC’s Response
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt condemned Moran’s post as “unhinged and unacceptable,” emphasizing the inappropriateness of such language from a journalist. Stephen Miller responded sharply too, accusing the media of radicalism and claiming that Moran had dropped the mask of journalistic impartiality.
Vice President JD Vance criticized Moran’s remarks as “dripping with hatred” and suggested that ABC News should issue an apology to Miller. Vance also urged audiences to reflect on ABC’s coverage of the Trump administration in light of this incident.
From ABC’s side, a spokesperson stated, “We are at the end of our agreement with Terry Moran and based on his recent post – which was a clear violation of ABC News policies – we have made the decision to not renew.” The network reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the highest standards of objectivity, fairness, and professionalism in journalism.
Context: ABC’s Previous Legal Challenges Involving Trump
This decision arrives just seven months after ABC News settled a $15 million legal dispute with Donald Trump. The settlement addressed defamatory comments made by ABC anchor George Stephanopoulos regarding a civil trial related to allegations of sexual abuse against Trump brought by writer E. Jean Carroll. The funds from the settlement were allocated toward a presidential library and museum for Trump, who continues to deny the allegations.
Looking Ahead
As the network parts ways with one of its most experienced correspondents, this episode highlights the delicate balance news organizations attempt to maintain between robust reporting and preserving professional decorum. The situation underscores the evolving challenges media outlets face in the age of rapid social media communication and heightened political sensitivities.
Requests for comments from Moran and the White House remain outstanding.
