Democratic presidential nominee, U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris speaks during a campaign rally at the Alliant Energy Center on October 30, 2024 in Madison, Wisconsin. (Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images)
(EPICSTORIAN) – The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has ordered CBS News to release the unedited version of its controversial 60 Minutes interview with Kamala Harris, revealing major edits that altered the context of her remarks.
The decision follows a lawsuit from former President Donald Trump, who claims the network deliberately manipulated the footage to shape public perception during an election year.
Trump Alleges Bias, CBS Forced to Release Full Footage
In October, Trump sued CBS, alleging that the network selectively edited Harris’ responses to present her in a more favorable light while downplaying statements that could damage her politically. The full footage, initially trimmed from an hour-long conversation to just 20 minutes, now raises concerns about media bias and selective reporting.
“This interview was rigged,” Trump stated. “They cut out the most damning parts, protecting Harris while attacking me.”
Following the FCC’s ruling, CBS disclosed the unedited version, exposing multiple deleted and altered exchanges. Among the most significant were Harris’ full remarks on Trump, Israel, Iran, and her qualifications for the presidency—many of which underwent substantial reductions in the final broadcast.
Key Omissions: Trump Criticism, Israel Policy, and Foreign Affairs
The full interview shows that Harris’ extensive critique of Trump was heavily edited. She originally accused him of using “racist tropes” and spreading “vile lies” about Haitian immigrants in Springfield, Ohio, but the broadcast reduced her remarks to a brief statement: “It’s just wrong.”
Also Read: Breaking: Trump Says US Troops Killed ‘Many’ ISIS Terrorists in Somalia Airstrikes
Regarding Israel’s war in Gaza, her complete response included calls for an immediate ceasefire and renewed focus on a two-state solution. The aired version trimmed her remarks, making them appear less decisive. A direct question about Iran’s nuclear ambitions was omitted entirely.
One of the most revealing cuts involved a discussion about America’s greatest adversary. Harris immediately identified Iran, but her lengthy, hesitant remarks on potential military action were removed from the final segment.
Edits to Domestic and Economic Policy Responses
Controversy over selective editing extended beyond foreign policy. Harris’ original response on economic strategy included a warning from analysts that Trump’s policies could “induce inflation” and “bring about a recession.” CBS removed the mention of inflation, leaving only a broad statement about economic growth.
Her stance on the U.S.-Mexico border also faced alterations. In discussing Biden’s border security bill, CBS cut three words—”which I support”—effectively neutralizing her position.
CBS Faces Backlash Over Media Integrity
Releasing the full interview has reignited debate over journalistic integrity, with critics accusing CBS of deliberately shaping narratives. Media watchdogs are calling for greater transparency, arguing that selective editing distorts public discourse.
“CBS has an obligation to present interviews as they are,” said FCC Commissioner Mark Phillips. “Any major edits should be disclosed to viewers, ensuring full transparency.”
CBS has yet to issue a formal response, but the revelations have deepened distrust in mainstream media, reinforcing Trump’s long-standing claims of bias. With the 2024 election heating up, this controversy could have lasting political ramifications.
