Behind the scenes, tensions at ABC are reportedly running high, with Muir and Davis facing scrutiny not just from viewers but from within the network itself. According to sources close to the situation, the moderators were blindsided by the backlash, believing they had done their best to hold the candidates accountable.
“David and Linsey are professionals,” said one ABC insider. “They’ve moderated debates before. They know how high the stakes are. But I don’t think anyone was prepared for this level of backlash.”
Muir, in particular, has come under fire from conservative circles, many of whom are calling for his resignation. While ABC has so far stood by its moderators, insiders suggest that the network may be considering a shakeup before the next major event.
“There’s a lot of pressure right now,” the insider continued. “The network can’t afford another ratings disaster, and they know it. If that means making some tough decisions about who sits in the moderator’s chair next time, so be it.”
