CBS' Scott Pelley Warns of Trump Attacks

Scott Pelley

Scott Pelley, a veteran CBS News anchor and "60 Minutes" correspondent, delivered a commencement address at Wake Forest University last week, that sparked significant controversy. The speech, which went viral over the weekend, drew criticism for its perceived anti-Trump rhetoric and politicized tone, with detractors arguing it was inappropriate for a graduation ceremony meant to celebrate students’ achievements. 

While Pelley did not mention President Donald Trump by name, his address included pointed remarks that many interpreted as directed at the Trump administration. He warned graduates of an “insidious fear” permeating American institutions, stating, “In this moment, this morning, our sacred rule of law is under attack. Journalism is under attack. Universities are under attack. Freedom of speech is under attack.” 

He further criticized what he saw as attacks on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, noting, “Power can rewrite history with grotesque false narratives. They can make criminals heroes and heroes criminals. Power can change the definition of the words we use to describe reality. Diversity is now described as illegal. Equity is to be shunned. Inclusion is a dirty word.” Pelley urged the Class of 2025 to protect democracy and pursue truth, framing their role as critical in a time of crisis.

Main points of contention:

• Critics argued that Pelley’s speech was an “angry” and “unhinged” rant that detracted from the celebratory nature of the event. They felt it was unfair to subject graduates and their families to a politically charged lecture on what should have been a joyous occasion. For example, an X post described the speech as a “depressing, hate-filled, disgusting, anti-Trump rant,” with one user stating they would have walked out if they were a graduate.
• Another post called it a “pathetic negative speech” that failed to inspire, lamenting that it overshadowed the graduates’ pursuit of the “American Dream.”
• Townhall.com labeled the speech as “unhinged” and criticized Pelley for focusing on Trump-related grievances rather than delivering an uplifting message.

For allowing Scott Pelly’s ridiculous woke anti-Trump monologue at the Wake Forest graduation, I believe the University should now change its name to

“WOKE FOREST”

What say you? pic.twitter.com/14WUHSvTIB

— Farm Girl Carrie 👩‍🌾 (@FarmGirlCarrie) May 28, 2025

Accusations of Bias and Hypocrisy:

• Conservative critics, including NewsBusters managing editor Curtis Houck, labeled Pelley as “pompous” and accused him of hypocrisy for decrying attacks on free speech while working for CBS, which they claimed had engaged in biased reporting. They referenced a $20 billion lawsuit filed by Trump against CBS, alleging the network deceptively edited a “60 Minutes” interview with then-Vice President Kamala Harris to favor her in the 2024 election.
• Fox News co-host Kayleigh McEnany went further, suggesting Pelley should be “arrested” for spreading “overt lies” about journalism being under attack, pointing to past CBS interviews with controversial figures like Mark Elias and Andy McCabe as evidence of journalistic bias.
• An X user remarked that Pelley’s speech exemplified the “undeniable case of TDS [Trump Derangement Syndrome],” accusing him of contributing to the declining credibility of the press.
• While Pelley avoided naming Trump, critics interpreted his references to attacks on journalism, universities, and free speech as direct jabs at Trump’s policies, including his lawsuit against CBS and his actions against universities like Harvard (e.g., barring international students). They argued that Pelley’s failure to address free speech concerns under previous administrations, such as during COVID-19 under President Biden, showed selective outrage.
• Media personality Megyn Kelly criticized Pelley for using the commencement as a platform to air grievances against Trump, noting that graduates were a “captive audience.” She suggested his remarks ignored instances of censorship under Democratic leadership.
• NY Post columnist Michael Goodwin wrote Pelley’s description of America and Trump’s agenda is so warped by partisanship that he can’t see straight. His version of reality brings to mind the distortions of a fun-house mirror — without the fun. Carried away by his own grandiosity, he fancies himself a brave truth-teller and reaches for historic comparisons.
• Pro-Trump podcaster Scott Adams claimed Pelley’s speech reflected liberal frustration over losing control of narrative and power.