Former CNN host Brian Stelter has thrown his hat into the political arena, aiming for a seat on the Readington Township, New Jersey, school board. Known for his tenure as the host of “Reliable Sources,” Stelter is charting a new course in his career, stepping into the local political scene as a Republican candidate.
The news, first reported by David Wildstein of the New Jersey Globe, comes as a surprise to many who have followed Stelter’s career in journalism. Stelter, who has always been at the forefront of media analysis, is now one of six candidates vying for the position left vacant by the resignation of Christina Napoli.
Stelter’s controversies have stemmed from his critiques of conservative media outlets, and his defense of mainstream media’s approach to news reporting. Stelter and CNN have long been accused of exhibiting bias, not holding certain media outlets to the same scrutiny as others, and sometimes failing to address issues within CNN itself.
Former CNN reporter Brian Stelter is seeking a seat on the Readington Township, New Jersey school board, @wildstein is reporting.
The former host of Reliable Sources is one of six candidates interviewing to fill a vacant seat caused by the resignation of Christina Napoli.— Shlomo Schorr (@OneJerseySchorr) February 20, 2024
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The stance made him a target for criticism by supporters of the administration, who accused him of bias and partisanship. Stelter’s decision to run as a Republican adds an interesting twist to his candidacy, given his background in a network often leaning towards the opposite end of the political spectrum.
The move has sparked a variety of reactions from the community.
REACTIONS:
Well at least it's not Jeffrey Toobin. 🤡
— ShellyM (@ShellyMNO) February 20, 2024
Mr Potato Head looking for another gig?
— Ken Harford (@harford_ken) February 20, 2024
Thumbs up for @brianstelter. pic.twitter.com/ZKYuVcvhwX
— Bill Taylor 138888 (@dnews2022) February 21, 2024
They do know he’s Brian Stelter, right?
— Jack Daley (@jackDaleyDCLA) February 20, 2024
Keep that corrupt sellout away from our kids.
— JustForTrends (@JustForTrends48) February 21, 2024