Last month, thousands of Hollywood actors, directors, and producers signed an open letter vehemently opposing Paramount’s proposed merger with Warner Bros. Discovery. The letter focused largely on the consequences the tie-up would have for the entertainment industry and consumer choice.

But while it argued that competition is “essential” to a “healthy democracy,” it did not grapple with one of the deal’s most significant implications for the public: putting CBS News and CNN, two of the most recognizable news organizations in the country, under the control of David Ellison, who has conspicuously cozied up to Donald Trump.