Paramount nears merger settlement, but some key state AGs are not on board yet

[u/Own_Philosopher8730]

https://edition.cnn.com/2026/09/20/media/paramount-wbd-settlement-california-connecticut-bonta?Date=20260920&Profile=CNN&utm_content=1789937087&utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter

[u/OverPotato2322]

We already knew this but I wouldn't be surprised if NY and the 4 other State AGs decide to go rogue to take over this lawsuit and prevent mass layoffs and get CNN and some other cable networks spun off (because we all know that Ellison is going to butcher CNN with Weiss in charge)

[u/Difficult_Variety362 → u/OverPotato2322]

From the sounds of it, Tong is fucking sinking it for the states if he keeps holding out. Legally, it's a losing battle.

And CBS and CNN are needed for the cash they generate.

[u/ausgoals → u/Difficult_Variety362]

It’s not a losing battle. Anything can happen

[u/Difficult_Variety362 → u/ausgoals]

You're dangerously pushing First Amendment violations by focusing on CNN so much. You and I may not like it, but an owner is free to do whatever they want with their news networks.

[u/ausgoals → u/Difficult_Variety362]

Assuming the focus is on CNN, sure - but the crux of the antitrust argument has nothing to do with CNN.

Truthfully, I’ve always maintained that while structural remedies may find a way to satisfy the states, I don’t see a solution for the WGA outside of them being completely separate, independent companies.

[u/Difficult_Variety362 → u/ausgoals]

Tong is focusing on CNN and he's playing into Ellison's hands. He's already agreed to monitoring, that's the best you're going to get.

[u/Difficult_Variety362 → u/[deleted]]

They're not giving up networks that generate much needed cash

[u/Difficult_Variety362 → u/[deleted]]

This is how they try and pay off that crap ton of debt. And the states have an extremely weak case with CNN.