CBS News came under intense criticism this weekend after promoting merchandise tied to the “No Kings Day” protests, which took place across the U.S. on Saturday.
The network shared a post on Friday advertising protest gear, sparking accusations of political bias and media impropriety.
The demonstrations were organized to oppose President Donald Trump and coincided with his administration’s military parade in Washington, D.C., commemorating the U.S. Army’s 250th anniversary.
The day also marked Flag Day, which honors the adoption of the American flag in 1777.
Protesters in hundreds of cities participated under the banner of “No Kings,” which organizers described as a “day of defiance.”
Many framed their demonstrations as opposition to what they view as authoritarianism, with some even calling for Trump to be “dethroned.”
The backlash against CBS News began after the outlet posted a graphic on X (formerly Twitter) displaying merchandise branded with “No Kings Day” slogans.
Critics argued that the post resembled an advertisement and questioned whether a news organization should promote political merchandise, Fox News reported.
J. Michael Waller, a senior analyst at the Center for Security Policy, criticized CBS for promoting “radical merchandise” on the eve of what he called a potential protest-turned-riot. He