ABC News President Who Touted DEI Now On The Chopping Block: REPORT

ABC News President Kim Godwin, who touted diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), is reportedly on the chopping block, according to CNN.

Debra OConnell, who was appointed in February to oversee the network, is currently conducting a leadership review as she has allegedly been appalled by Godwin’s management and leadership style, sources told CNN. She has reportedly failed to replace key positions and has caused anxiety to circulate among staff.

“She has to take swift moves,” a person reportedly told OConnell about Godwin’s leadership. “People there are restless. They are extremely frustrated.”

Godwin broke ties with the network’s former head of talent, Galen Gordon, and has yet to fill the position after a year, CNN reported. Prominent staff left their positions for other outlets under her watch, including former Washington bureau chief Jonathan Greenberger, who switched to Politico after the 2020 election.

Several executives were laid off in March 2023, reportedly causing “shock” throughout the newsroom. Godwin told her staff the downsizing was a “difficult time” for the entire network, but vowed they were on a “solid footing.”

The network has also seen ratings fall and has watched other outlets, notably “CBS Mornings,” creep up past “Good Morning America,” according to CNN.

OConnell will be investigating Senior Vice President and Executive Editor Stacia Deshishku, Executive Vice President Derek Medina and Vice President of the Office of the President and Process Management Jose Andino, according to CNN. (RELATED: ABC News To Host Republican Debate Days Before CNN) 

Godwin became the ABC News’ first black president following the departure of James Goldston in January 2021, according to Forbes. The National Association of Black Journalists celebrated her hiring and recognized her as a recipient of the Ida B. Wells Award, which recognizes individuals increasing access to racial minorities in journalism.

“The significance of this appointment is not lost on me,” Godwin said, according to Forbes. “I stand on the shoulders of giants in journalism who paved the way as members of NABJ. I was mentored by many in this organization and have therefore made it my business to mentor many as I’ve come along. I’m looking forward to joining the extraordinary team at ABC News and excited about what we can accomplish together.”

When she introduced herself to the staff at ABC News in May 2021, Godwin touted her background of being raised by a single mother and having been a single mom herself, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

ABC News did not immediately respond to the Daily Caller’s request for comment.