They all help pay for their programming with advertising, definitely, but the networks’ motive isn’t to achieve the highest possible profits with their news productions, because news is just one part of their lineup. It would never be profitable on its own for them. CNN is only news, so their programming naturally ends up being more friendly to corporations and other interests that might benefit their bottom line, but not necessarily the public good.
WDYM? They’re all making money through sponsorships. Even PBS Newshour has sponsors for their segments.
They all help pay for their programming with advertising, definitely, but the networks’ motive isn’t to achieve the highest possible profits with their news productions, because news is just one part of their lineup. It would never be profitable on its own for them. CNN is only news, so their programming naturally ends up being more friendly to corporations and other interests that might benefit their bottom line, but not necessarily the public good.