Anti-Trump anchor Jim Acosta has been excluded from CNN’s new weekday lineup.
His 10 a.m. ET slot was replaced by "The Situation Room with Wolf Blitzer and Pamela Brown," leaving Acosta's future unclear. CNN has frequently reshuffled its programming, but this move leaves Acosta without a clear role.
"We are in active discussions with Jim about a new time slot," a CNN spokesperson told Fox News Digital.
Other changes include Jake Tapper hosting from 5-7 p.m. ET, while Anderson Cooper, Kaitlan Collins, and Abby Phillip remain in primetime.
CNN CEO Mark Thompson reportedly pitched moving Acosta to a midnight slot, a significant downgrade from his current position. The midnight slot, while longer, is seen as far less prestigious.
Acosta gained notoriety as CNN's chief White House correspondent, clashing frequently with President Trump and his staff. After the 2020 election, he transitioned to chief domestic correspondent and eventually hosted weekday shows.
Under previous leadership, Acosta’s confrontational style with the Trump administration was celebrated. However, CNN's current leadership appears to be aiming for a more neutral tone.
One CNN staffer expressed frustration, saying, "Acosta is a talented broadcaster… the midnight thing is shocking, but it is what it is."
The changes coincide with CNN announcing layoffs of about 6% of its workforce. The Los Angeles Times reported that if Acosta declines the midnight slot, he may leave the network altogether.
Moving to midnight could also require Acosta to relocate from Washington, D.C., to Los Angeles, though it’s unclear if he would accept such a move given his family ties to D.C.
Since joining CNN in 2007, Acosta has become known for his bold questioning and high-profile clashes with Trump. His confrontations helped elevate his profile, earning him a book deal and guest spots on liberal late-night shows.
Acosta famously refused to relinquish a microphone during a tense exchange with Trump in 2018. The White House tried to revoke his press pass, but CNN successfully argued it violated constitutional rights.
His battles with Trump bolstered his career during the Biden presidency, landing him an anchor role. Recently, he defended the press, declaring it’s "not the enemy of the people," a jab at Trump’s rhetoric.