Welcome to this week’s edition of Confider, the media newsletter that provides an inside look into the world of journalism. Subscribe here and send your questions, tips, and complaints here.
EXCLUSIVE — SINGMAN RISING:
Fox News Digital reporter Brooke Singman has gained significant influence and exclusive access to former President Donald Trump since he left the White House. Singman has become one of Trump’s trusted messengers, conducting numerous exclusive interviews with him. Singman’s close relationship with Trump has caused other GOP presidential campaigns to be wary of her, fearing that whatever they say around her will be relayed back to Trump’s team. Singman has even been exploring potential job opportunities with CNN and talent agency CAA, suggesting that she may be angling for a position in a second Trump administration.
EXCLUSIVE — GRAY AREA:
The Hill’s co-host Briahna Joy Gray has faced internal criticism for her commentary on the recent Gaza conflict, with some staffers accusing her of being “pro-Hamas” and engaging in “fringe” commentary. Gray has gotten into heated arguments with her co-host and has been accused of finding ways to justify Hamas’ actions. Her commentary has sparked concern among Hill reporters, who worry that her views could impact their ability to communicate with lawmakers. This controversy follows The Hill’s decision to sever ties with former contributor Katie Halper after her critical comments about Israel. NewsNation, also owned by Nexstar, has yet to notice Gray’s commentary.
BATTLE LINES:
Internally, news organizations have faced their own conflicts over coverage of the Gaza conflict. NBC News employees engaged in a heated Slack exchange over the lack of Palestinian representation in a Microsoft Teams event meant to grieve the lives lost in the conflict. This incident reflects the divisions within news organizations when it comes to reporting on the Middle East conflict. These divisions have also spilled into the public sphere, with NBC News employees publicly criticizing the reporting of chief foreign correspondent Richard Engel.
MSNBC’S RATINGS RUT:
MSNBC’s coverage of the conflict has faced criticism for being sympathetic to Hamas, which may have contributed to a decline in ratings since the conflict began.