ABC News prez resigns amid investigation into her alleged incompetence, was head of diversity at CBS: report

A former DEI executive has stepped down after being brought on as the president of ABC News. The resignation comes after an investigation into her alleged incompetence in the position.  

According to a report from the Wall Street Journal, ABC News President Kim Godwin stepped down on Sunday night after an investigation into her alleged incompetence.  

"I have decided to retire from broadcast journalism,” Godwin, 60, wrote in the email to staff on Sunday. “Anyone who’s passionate about what we do knows there’s no other business like it, so this was not an easy or quick decision. But after considerable reflection, I’m certain it’s the right one for me as I look to the future and prioritize what’s most important for me and my family.”  

Her replacement has not yet been named. The Daily Caller reported previously that she was under review after leadership was "frustrated" with her performance.  
 
Debra O'Connell, who was appointed in February to oversee the company, was reportedly appalled by the pro-DEI president's performance at ABC.  
 
“She has to take swift moves,” someone reportedly told O'Connell about Godwin's leadership. “People there are restless. They are extremely frustrated.” 

Prior to coming on at ABC, Godwin held a position as executive director for development and diversity at CBS News. In the memo to staff, she stated she is stepping down "with my head held high and wish the entire team continued success.”  

As the WSJ reports, the president was often slammed by staff internally at the network for not being involved in day-day operations at the company. She was reportedly more interested in boosting her own profile than managing the company, according to the outlet's report.   

She became a polarizing figure at the media company, and some blamed her for the decline in ratings of "Good Morning America," even though the shows have maintained rankings in competition with other networks.   

During her tenure as the company leader, several prominent people left the company, including head of talent Galen Gordon as well as Washington bureau chief Jonathan Greenberger.