Amid CNN departure, Jim Acosta on Trump: Never bow down to tyranny
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The anchor, known for his strong criticism of Trump during his first term, is departing the network after 20 years.
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CNN White House correspondent Jim Acosta arrives at the US District Court in Washington, D.C, on November 16, 2018, where Judge Timothy Kelly ordered the White House to reinstate Acosta’s press. (AFP via Getty Images)
Jim Acosta, a CNN anchor known for his outspoken criticism of Donald Trump during his presidency, announced his departure from the network after nearly 20 years. In his final broadcast on Tuesday, Acosta shared a parting message: "Hold on to truth and hope."
His decision to leave followed a dispute with CNN regarding a scheduling change for his show, which was moved to midnight. According to The New York Times, this shift led to a conflict, prompting Acosta to step down.
Today’s show was my last at CNN. My closing message: It’s never a good time to bow down to a tyrant… don’t give in to the lies. Don’t give in to fear. Hold on to the truth… and hope. pic.twitter.com/sGhSWSyPMz
— Jim Acosta (@Acosta) January 28, 2025
Acosta was well known for his relentless challenges to the Trump administration, both in the newsroom and at White House press briefings. CNN praised Acosta’s nearly 20-year career, acknowledging his commitment to standing up for "the First Amendment and for our journalistic freedoms." The network thanked him for his dedication and wished him the best.
Acosta’s time slot will be replaced by a new program hosted by Wolf Blitzer and Pamela Brown.
In response to Acosta’s departure, Trump criticized him on Truth Social, calling it “good news” and labeling him one of the “worst and most dishonest reporters in journalistic history.”
Acosta did not mention any changes to CNN’s editorial direction but urged viewers in his farewell message, "It’s never a good time to bow down to a tyrant… don’t give in to the lies. Don’t give in to fear. Hold on to the truth… and hope."
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