Trump Administration Reportedly Backs Paramount’s Plan to Buy Warner Bros

Paramount Skydance, the media company owned by billionaire David Ellison, is reportedly interested in buying Warner Bros. Discovery, a move that has drawn political attention and concerns over growing influence from the Trump administration.

Ellison, who has long been friendly with Donald Trump, recently received government approval for the merger between Paramount and Skydance earlier this year.

Now, reports suggest that his next target is Warner Bros. Discovery. The idea of another major media deal connected to Trump allies has sparked warnings about what some critics call the “MAGA-fication” of major news outlets like CBS, which is part of the Paramount network.

Trump has publicly praised both David Ellison and his father, Larry Ellison, calling them “friends” and “supporters.” Larry Ellison, a major tech billionaire, has also been involved in Trump’s efforts to bring TikTok under American ownership. Trump has said that CBS would “be better off” under David Ellison’s leadership.

According to CNN’s Brian Stelter, people close to the Ellison family have been quietly telling others that David is the only buyer who could get approval from Trump’s regulators.

Conservative commentator Charles Gasparino also reported in the New York Post that the Trump administration “favors Paramount Skydance to buy Warner Bros. Discovery” and that other bidders would likely face major regulatory obstacles.

A senior Trump administration official told On The Money, “Who owns Warner Bros. Discovery is very important to the administration. The Warner board needs to think very seriously not just on the price competition but which player in the suitor pool has been successful getting a deal done.” The official added, “And that points to the Ellisons.”

While MSNBC has not independently verified the reports, the possible sale has raised alarms among some Democratic lawmakers. Senator Elizabeth Warren posted a video warning that the merger could increase media consolidation, allow for more political interference, and even lead to higher prices for consumers.

Critics say Trump’s interest in media ownership reflects his broader push to control how news outlets operate.

Over the years, Trump has repeatedly attacked broadcasters for criticizing him, threatened to revoke their licenses, and even filed lawsuits against networks. His administration’s FCC chair, Brendan Carr, once made a public statement urging TV station owners to “take action on [Jimmy] Kimmel” after the comedian mocked Republicans on air.

This situation shows how powerful media ownership can be when it mixes with politics. If major outlets are tied too closely to one political side, it becomes harder for audiences to trust that what they’re hearing is fair. The press needs space to operate freely, no matter who is in power. What do you think? Would this kind of merger hurt media independence in the U.S.? Share your thoughts in the comments.