CBS reporter defies boss’ text, shows pro-Trump crowd in Texas after Iran strikes

AUSTIN, TEXAS: A reporter with CBS Austin is going viral on Sunday, March 1 after appearing to push back against instructions from his superiors while covering reactions to the US - Israel strikes on Iran.

The moment, captured on video and widely circulated online, shows the journalist acknowledging a message from higher-ups before choosing to continue reporting on a large pro-Trump crowd gathered at the Texas Capitol.

Reporter defies orders during live broadcast

The reporter, identified as Vinny Martorano was covering a live event at the Texas Capitol in Austin, where demonstrators had gathered following the strikes.

In the now-viral video, Martorano looks down at his phone and appears to reference a message from management. Turning slightly toward his cameraman, he says, “They don’t want us to focus on this…”

After a brief pause, he adds decisively “Alright. Well, I AM.”

He then looks directly into the camera and continues his live report without hesitation.

“Mixed opinions across Austin about the joint attack between the United States and Israel against Iran that happened early this morning,” Martorano says on air.

“Some people like this group behind me are thanking Trump and the United States government for following through with this attack against Iran, while other people across the city say there needs to be more peace in the Middle East. The strike is drawing a variety of opinions.”

The crowd behind him could be seen waving flags and expressing support for President Donald Trump and the military action.

Vinny Martorano gets praised for 'ethics'

The clip quickly ignited reactions online, with many users praising Martorano’s decision to proceed with his coverage.

“Give this patriot a raise,” one widely shared comment read. “What a guy. More of this in the mainstream media.”

Some commenters went further, calling for professional consequences for the unnamed superior who allegedly sent the message.

“If it's possible, promote this reporter to his superior's position, and fire the superior,” one user wrote.

Others framed the moment as a broader indictment of media practices.

“The fact that superiors are explicitly telling reporters to ignore massive crowds is deeply concerning. This exposes how ‘the news’ is often curated to hide public sentiment that doesn't align with leadership. We need more independent voices like this who refuse to let the truth be silenced by a text message,” one comment stated.

Still another added “This is how a real legitimate journalist behaves. Unlike the script reading robots we normally see on news reports. The mainstream news outlet that declares & focuses on straight unbiased news, showing the good & bad of all sides, will become #1 in viewership.”

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.