Overview
- The January 18 telecast averaged 4.9 million viewers, well below the program’s 2024–25 season average of 8.32 million, according to Nielsen figures reported by multiple outlets.
- The segment examined alleged abuse of two Venezuelan men deported from the United States to El Salvador’s CECOT megaprison.
- CBS initially pulled the story hours before its planned December 21 airing after editor-in-chief Bari Weiss pressed for on-the-record responses from the Trump administration.
- Correspondent Sharyn Alfonsi told viewers the team repeatedly sought on-camera interviews with senior administration officials, who declined to participate.
- Media analysts and viewers faulted the decision to air the update opposite an NFL playoff game and highlighted the rebranding as ratings damage control, noting a Trump interview last November drew about 14 million viewers.