Alsina, one of the 61: his move to Spain's SER sparks criticism

Alsina joins Cadena SER and is linked to 'the 61'. His shift from government critic to establishment voice reopens the debate on radio independence in Spain.

English · Original discussion in Spanish · Published

Alsina, one of the 61: the controversial move to the SER

What lies behind the label linking the journalist to a group of 61? The question has been hanging over Spanish radio circles ever since his move to Cadena SER was confirmed. The switch, which some see as a turn toward pro-government positions, has peine the debate about the independence of broadcasters.

The context: after Ángels Barceló's departure, the SER was looking for a heavyweight replacement. Alsina, coming from Onda Cero (OC), seemed the perfect candidate. But the way the deal was done – and above all, his place on the list of the 61 – has raised hackles. The label, popularized in political circles, suggests an alignment with Sánchez's government. Industry insiders recall that Alsina had been a fierce critic of the administration, which makes the about-face all the more striking.

  • Criticism over his supposed lack of consistency: going from hammering the government to accepting a post at a friendly outlet.
  • The reference to Jesús Quintero, who had reportedly already warned about Alsina.
  • The SER's role in the new media landscape.

The debate is no small matter. In a time of polarization, journalists moving between outlets are scrutinized closely. Alsina, who built an image of independence, must now manage the perception that he has been "captured" by power. How his audience responds remains to be seen.

In the end, it turns out that his contrived centrism had a known destination: the SER.

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Summary of a discussion on Burbuja.info - Foro de economía, actualidad y política., translated from Spanish and reviewed before publication. Read the full discussion (23 replies).

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