Terry Moran, ABC News' senior national correspondent, was suspended after an aggressive social media post targeting White House adviser Stephen Miller amid high tensions over border disputes in Los Angeles.
As reported by the New York Post, ABC News cited concerns over objectivity and impartiality as the reason for Moran's suspension following his late-night attack on Stephen Miller and President Trump.
The post, which was widely criticized by members of the Trump administration and social media users, was initially published during a time of escalated civil unrest. Eye-catching phrases describing Miller’s supposed inclination towards hatred were shared, painting him as a central figure in what Moran dubbed "Trumpism."
The suspension of Moran comes as ABC News reaffirms its commitment to balanced and fair reporting. An official statement was released, emphasizing the network's dedication to impartiality and declaring the correspondent's posts as unreflective of ABC's values.
These events unfolded concurrently with heightened tensions in Los Angeles, where protests against the Border Patrol's actions resulted in unruly demonstrations. In response, President Trump ordered the deployment of 2,000 National Guard troops, heightening the stakes for both law enforcement and residents.
Stephen Miller, to whom Moran’s comments were directed, denounced the protests in Los Angeles as an “insurrection.” His firm stance on immigration and border control has been a cornerstone of the administration’s policies.
Vice President JD Vance also weighed in on the matter, criticizing Moran's posts and questioning the objectivity in ABC's reporting. His response underscores the broader issues of media bias that have permeated discussions about coverage of the Trump administration.
Moran, who has been a prominent voice in political reporting, had foreseen Trump's electoral victories in both 2016 and 2024. This prediction aligned with his portrayal of Trump as a figure disconnected from traditional party ideologies, identifying him instead as a nationalist.
Underlining this context is an interview conducted by Moran with Trump during his first 100 days in office. The discussion centered on policies affecting individuals like Kilmar Abrego Garcia, whose deportation was a focal point in talks about immigration reform and enforcement.
In a more extensive backdrop, ABC had previously settled a defamation lawsuit with Trump for $15 million. This lawsuit, linked to a civil sexual abuse case involving George Stephanopoulos, reflects the fraught history between the media network and the Trump administration.
The original posts by Moran were swiftly removed; however, the fast-paced nature of social media allowed screen-shotted copies to circulate broadly. The controversy surrounding these statements serves as a reminder of the enduring influence of both digital platforms and journalistic integrity within public discourse.
Looking ahead, it remains uncertain how Moran's suspension will impact ABC News’ broader programming and coverage. Internally, this decision stands as a testament to the network’s dedication to maintaining a reputation for unbiased reporting in an era marked by polarization.
Ultimately, this incident highlights ongoing challenges within the media landscape. As journalists navigate the fine line between personal expression and professional responsibility, the need for deliberate reflection and adherence to ethical standards persists.
