The Powers That Be: Daily Media Monday: A Politico Sea Change & Advanced Bari-ology
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Jan 19, 2026 Jon Kelly, co-founder of Puck, returns with insightful commentary on recent shifts in the media landscape. He unpacks the leadership change at Politico, discussing how Axel Springer’s ambitions may be reshaping the company. Jon highlights controversies around Playbook's redesign and staffing missteps that raised eyebrows. Additionally, they delve into the turmoil at CBS News under Bari Weiss, exploring how rapid changes are impacting ratings and internal culture, and critique the network's strategy for capturing viral moments.
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Founding Figure Whose Choices Backfired
- Jon Kelly recounts John Harris as a steady, long-serving stabilizer at Politico since its founding era.
- Kelly says Harris's personnel choices, like hiring Jack Blanchard for Playbook, visibly damaged a key consumer product and strained relations with Axel Springer.
Personal Memory Of John Harris
- Peter Hamby shares a personal memory of meeting John Harris in a CNN green room and bonding over Harris's earlier Clinton book.
- He emphasizes Harris's reputation as a contemplative, respected figure in D.C. journalism circles.
Axel Springer Wanted The B2B Prize
- Kelly argues Axel Springer bought Politico for its B2B political product, not the consumer side.
- He implies consumer missteps and cultural issues made Politico vulnerable under new ownership.
