In a notable move early in his tenure, CBS Evening News anchor Tony Dokoupil has secured an exclusive interview with President Donald Trump. This interview, taking place in Detroit, Michigan, is set to delve into critical topics such as international relations concerning Iran, the nation's economic landscape, and the policies of Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell. This high-profile event unfolds just weeks after Dokoupil assumed his anchor position, a period already marked by both challenges and distinctive editorial decisions for the CBS flagship program.
CBS Anchor Tony Dokoupil Engages President Trump in Michigan Amidst New Role's Scrutiny
On January 13, 2026, CBS Evening News anchor Tony Dokoupil conducted a significant interview with President Donald Trump at a Ford factory in Dearborn, Michigan. This interview, confirmed by Dokoupil himself, focused on pressing issues including Iran, the economy, and Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell. Dokoupil's early weeks as anchor have been dynamic, beginning shortly after a major U.S. intervention in Venezuela. Despite an initial teleprompter malfunction during his debut—which was rectified for later broadcasts—and consistent competition from rival networks ABC and NBC in ratings, Dokoupil and CBS News have pursued bold editorial strategies. These have included thought-provoking segments, such as a meme-focused piece on Marco Rubio and commentary following an ICE-involved shooting in Minneapolis. The decision to secure an interview with President Trump aligns with editor-in-chief Bari Weiss's stated ambition for the Evening News to produce viral, news-making content, following previous interviews with figures like White House border czar Tom Homan and Colorado Governor Jared Polis. This pivotal interview in Detroit coincides with President Trump's visit to a Ford plant and his address to the Detroit Economic Club, with Dokoupil anchoring from General Motors headquarters.
This interview serves as a powerful statement from CBS News regarding its commitment to impactful journalism under new leadership. In a media landscape constantly vying for attention, such a high-profile engagement can significantly shape public discourse and affirm the program's relevance. It highlights the ongoing intersection of politics, media, and public interest, reminding us of the critical role that anchors and news outlets play in facilitating dialogue between leaders and the populace. The move demonstrates a clear intent to innovate and capture audience attention through substantive content, particularly in the competitive evening news slot.