To be clear, this has never been about CBS News’ right to ask the tough question; that is and always will be the standard. Our hosts and correspondents will continue to ask the toughest questions on the most important and complex issues. I’m incredibly proud of CBS News and the way they meet the moment, even in the most challenging times.

Wendy is an outstanding, accomplished leader. She and her leadership team are passionate advocates and stewards for CBS News standards; that won’t change.  Reasonable minds in a newsroom will appropriately pressure test and debate internally to ensure balanced and objective coverage externally.

All of us move forward from this moment – including me – committed to reflection, perfecting the process and doubling down in service of the audience when the need for accurate, unbiased news presented in proper context has never been more important.