Poynter is reporting that the Trump administration has subpoenaed freelance journalist Matthew Cole, who contributed to a 2019 New York Times story about a failed U.S. mission in North Korea. The New York Times' Devlin Barrett wrote that investigators are seeking Cole's testimony regarding two years of contacts and conversations to identify his sources. The Times is providing legal defense for Cole, with attorney David A. O’Neil stating Cole will defend press freedom and honor his commitment to sources. Unlike previous subpoenas issued to Times journalists in July for an Air Force One story, which were later withdrawn, this subpoena has not been rescinded. The article described how Navy SEAL members killed unarmed North Koreans during a classified operation to plant an eavesdropping device.
Poynter is also reporting that Scott Pelley and Sharyn Alfonsi, two journalists dismissed from "60 Minutes" during recent upheaval, have been appointed Journalists in Residence at the Columbia Journalism School for the 2026-27 academic year. Jelani Cobb, dean of the school, highlighted the opportunity for students to learn from their investigative reporting experience. Separately, The New York Post reported that former "60 Minutes" executive producer Bill Owens is seeking to launch a rival newsmagazine show, though representatives for Owens denied these plans.
President Donald Trump lashed out at U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro and MS NOW reporter Jake Traylor, Poynter said. Trump criticized Pirro for dropping a vandalism case involving the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, stating on Truth Social that he disagreed with her decision. When Traylor asked if he was reconsidering Pirro's role, Trump called him "fake news" and told him not to speak again. The Wall Street Journal later reported that Trump has discussed ousting Pirro.
MS NOW announced that Peter Alexander, who left NBC News earlier this year, will launch his new show, "State of Play with Peter Alexander," next Monday. The show will air weekdays at 11 a.m. Eastern time from Washington, where Alexander will also serve as the network’s chief national reporter and a breaking news anchor.
Poynter is reporting on the uncertain future of CBS lead NFL analyst Tony Romo following his arrest on suspicion of driving while intoxicated. CBS placed Romo on leave and quickly announced J.J. Watt's promotion to the top broadcasting team alongside Jim Nantz. Sports commentators Dave Portnoy of Barstool Sports and former ESPN personality Dan Le Batard suggested Romo's time as a top NFL analyst at CBS is likely over, with Portnoy stating CBS was "clearly looking for an out." Romo has four years and $72 million remaining on his contract, and commentators speculate CBS may seek to terminate it for cause.