DeepSummary
The episode features an interview with Michael Wolff, a long-time chronicler of the Murdoch empire and biographer, about the implications of Rupert Murdoch stepping down as executive chairman of News Corp and handing over the role to his son Lachlan. Wolff discusses the potential impact on Fox News and the Murdoch dynasty, particularly regarding their relationship with Donald Trump and the upcoming US presidential election.
The conversation explores the dynamics between Rupert Murdoch, his children, and their varying political leanings, highlighting the potential power struggle within the family over control of the media empire. Wolff suggests that while Lachlan may hold the title, Rupert will likely continue to exert significant influence, and the decision to support or distance themselves from Trump could have major consequences.
The episode also touches on the impact of the Murdoch media outlets on the upcoming UK general election and the potential shift in support toward or away from the Labour party. The power panel, featuring journalists from POLITICO, provides further analysis on the changing media landscape and the diminishing influence of traditional gatekeepers like the Murdoch empire.
Key Episodes Takeaways
- Rupert Murdoch is expected to maintain significant influence over News Corp and Fox News, despite stepping down as executive chairman.
- Fox News' coverage and support of Donald Trump is closely tied to their goal of maintaining high ratings and audience share.
- The dynamics within the Murdoch family, particularly the differing political leanings among Rupert's children, could lead to power struggles over the direction of the media empire.
- Fox News' stance towards Trump, whether supportive or critical, could have a substantial impact on the upcoming US presidential election.
- The Murdoch media outlets' support or opposition could also influence the outcome of the upcoming UK general election, particularly concerning the Labour party.
- Traditional media gatekeepers like the Murdoch empire are experiencing a diminishing influence due to the rise of alternative media sources and online platforms.
- Fox News risks losing a portion of its audience to other conservative networks if it distances itself from Trump.
- The changing media landscape and fragmentation pose challenges for the Murdoch dynasty's ability to maintain its previous level of influence.
Top Episodes Quotes
- “My feeling is that nothing changes, that this is a kind of theatrical moment in which the plot is not really furthered. The truth of it is that Rupert remains in charge.“ by Michael Wolff
- “Fox is, has where the ground soldiers of Fox have won mission, ratings, ratings, ratings, ratings. And they are wholly connected to Donald Trump.“ by Jonathan Martin
- “I think in some ways, and like, that's the way that Fox could actually impact the general election, it's less helping Trump than it would be hurting Trump by walking away from him.“ by Jonathan Martin
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Episode Information
Power Play
POLITICO
9/28/23
The exit of the most powerful player at News Corp has made headlines on both sides of the Atlantic. At 92, Rupert Murdoch has decided to step down as executive chairman, making way for his son Lachlan. But will much change, given Rupert Murdoch's reputation for being close to the action?
In this week's episode of Power Play, host Anne McElvoy talks to Michael Wolff, long-time chronicler of the Murdoch empire and biographer. His latest book, "The Fall: The End of Fox News and the Murdoch Dynasty," is published this week.
They discuss what's at stake for News Corp and Fox and what the change at the top will mean for general elections in the U.S. and the U.K. next year.
Later, Anne talks to POLITICO’s assembled “Power Panel” to chart their way through a fast-changing media and political landscape. She's joined by Jonathan Martin, POLITICO's senior political reporter in Washington, and Emilio Casalicchio, author of London Playbook PM.
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