Nexstar has initiated significant staff reductions across its television stations nationwide, notably impacting long-serving individuals such as KTLA weather anchor Mark Kriski. This move has triggered strong criticism from major labor unions, including SAG-AFTRA and the Communications Workers of America (CWA), who argue that these cuts undermine local news and come amidst questionable corporate practices, particularly as Nexstar proceeds with its acquisition of Tegna.
Mark Kriski, a veteran meteorologist with an impressive eight Emmy awards, has been a familiar face on Los Angeles television since the inception of "KTLA Morning News" in 1991. His departure is part of a broader restructuring at Nexstar, which also saw the termination of midday anchors Glen Walker and Lu Parker from KTLA. Similarly, WGN in Chicago experienced substantial layoffs, with the Chicago Tribune reporting eight personnel cuts, including the long-serving Dean Richards. Other affected individuals at WGN include Sean Lewis, Ray Cortopassi, Bronagh Tumulty, Judy Wang, Julian Crews, Paul Lisnek, and Chris Boden. Additionally, meteorologist Mike Janseen's contract was not renewed, and six newswriters were let go, alongside the elimination of three technical director positions. WPIX in New York also faced layoffs, reportedly affecting anchors Kori Chambers, Arrianae LeBeau, John Muller, and Craig Treadway.
A spokesperson for Nexstar declined to comment on individual personnel matters, stating only that the company is undertaking necessary steps to remain competitive in a rapidly evolving media landscape. These workforce reductions are occurring as Nexstar advances its $6.2 billion acquisition of the Tegna station group, a transaction that would significantly expand its oversight of local news operations across the country. This consolidation has amplified concerns among unions regarding the future of local journalism and employee rights.
SAG-AFTRA has openly condemned Nexstar for these job eliminations, particularly highlighting the termination of unionized positions at KTLA and WGN. The union pointed out that these layoffs are happening while SAG-AFTRA is actively negotiating with Nexstar stations in various markets. Sean Astin, President of SAG-AFTRA, stated that these actions by Nexstar erode vital local news resources and talent, emphasizing the risks associated with media consolidation. He urged regulators and the company to prioritize public interest and the professionals who serve it. Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, SAG-AFTRA's National Executive Director and Chief Negotiator, added that the union's members are trusted voices in their communities and deserve contracts that respect their work and secure their futures. He affirmed that SAG-AFTRA would not passively observe the jeopardization of local news and would continue to advocate for robust agreements that protect journalists and their audiences.
Adding to the criticism, the Communications Workers of America (CWA), affiliated with AFL-CIO, has also voiced strong disapproval of Nexstar's alleged anti-union tactics. The CWA claims that Nexstar has resisted employee efforts to unionize in several markets and has retaliated against individual workers for their union activism. According to the CWA, Nexstar has repeatedly refused to recognize unions despite clear election outcomes supervised by the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) at three Nexstar stations and one broadcasting hub. The NLRB has reportedly issued four complaints against Nexstar for terminating pro-union employees at its Denver locations and is investigating additional unfair labor practice charges in Henderson, Kentucky, involving alleged terminations of union supporters and unilateral changes to working conditions. These union disputes further complicate the narrative surrounding Nexstar's recent layoffs and acquisitions, painting a picture of a company facing significant labor challenges while pursuing aggressive expansion.
These widespread layoffs at Nexstar, affecting a significant number of broadcast professionals, underscore the profound shifts occurring within the media industry, particularly regarding local news. The ongoing concerns raised by labor unions highlight the broader debate about media consolidation, its impact on employment, and the quality and accessibility of local news services. The situation with long-serving figures like Mark Kriski serves as a poignant example of the personal toll these corporate decisions can take on individuals who have dedicated decades to their communities.