Terry Moran’s departure from ABC News Fuels Independent Media Debate

Updated June 12, 2025

Following his ⁢abrupt departure from ABC News, Terry Moran is being encouraged by journalists who have transitioned to independent platforms to follow suit. Jim Acosta, a former CNN anchor, extended⁢ an invitation, saying, “Come on in, Terry. The water is warm.”

Moran’s exit occurred after ABC⁤ News suspended him for calling Donald Trump and Stephen Miller “world-class haters” in a social media post, which he later deleted. Just weeks prior, Moran had interviewed Trump in the Oval Office.⁣ ABC News cited a “clear violation” of company policy in its decision not to renew Moran’s contract, emphasizing its commitment to objectivity and fairness.

The incident reignited criticism of ABC News from‍ MAGA supporters, who accuse⁣ the network of bias. this comes after ABC News settled a lawsuit with the Trump administration, paying $15 million ⁤to Trump’s presidential library and $1 million to Trump’s⁢ attorney.

Many journalists, including Acosta, Ryan Lizza, Don Lemon, Chuck Todd, and Joy Reid, have recently embraced independent media, often shifting from reporting ‍to commentary. Moran has already⁤ updated his X bio to ⁢”Independent Journalist” ⁣and linked to his Substack account, signaling‍ a potential move in this direction. This shift towards independent journalism offers a more intimate relationship‍ with subscribers.

Acosta sees substack as “a great platform for joining the independent media revolution.” Lizza, who founded Telos ⁣on Substack after leaving Politico, believes Moran would be triumphant on the platform, though he⁢ anticipates Moran will have other options.

Ben Meiselas, a founder of MeidasTouch, has publicly invited Moran to join his progressive network, highlighting the organization’s success and recent hiring of Katie Phang. He urged Moran to “help lead ⁤the next era of journalism—one that doesn’t flinch when⁤ democracy is under threat.”

Chris Cillizza,formerly of CNN,argues that “there⁤ has never⁤ been a better time ⁤to be on your own,making news ⁢content ⁢free of legacy media.” He advises those transitioning to independent media ⁤to ⁢recognize⁤ they are now “sellers” of their content.⁣ Cillizza also noted that ⁤independent journalists can be more nimble and creative than legacy media outlets, which he sees as ⁤lacking innovation.

Lizza believes ABC’s decision⁤ sends a⁤ “chilling message to reporters,” suggesting that journalists working ‍for large corporations are vulnerable to business-side interference. Acosta added that independent⁢ media will force corporate media to “grow a stronger spine” as it gains ⁢influence.

What’s ⁤next

As Terry Moran explores his options, the debate surrounding independent journalism and its role in holding power accountable continues to intensify. His next move could signal a ⁢meaningful shift in the media landscape.