Steve Kornacki, MSNBC’s beloved data guru known for his electrifying election coverage, is leaving the left-leaning network after securing a new deal with NBC. The move comes as the network faces significant changes in its structure and programming, following Comcast’s decision to spin off its cable assets into a separate entity.
Kornacki, who skyrocketed to national fame during the tumultuous 2020 presidential election, will scale back his role at MSNBC, transitioning to a broader position as NBC’s contributor and chief data analyst for both NBC News and NBC Sports. This new role marks the latest in a series of shifts at MSNBC, which has been reeling from internal upheaval and restructuring efforts in preparation for the company’s impending spinoff.
As Kornacki moves on, he leaves behind a legacy as one of MSNBC’s most recognizable faces, particularly during election cycles. His signature energetic breakdowns of polling data and voting patterns, often accompanied by his rolled-up sleeves and unmistakable enthusiasm, earned him a loyal following. His dynamic presence made him a fan favorite and even landed him a spot on *People* magazine’s “Sexiest Men Alive” list in 2020.
However, as MSNBC prepares for its future as an independent entity, the network is grappling with significant changes. Kornacki’s departure is part of a larger shake-up at the network, which recently experienced widespread layoffs, the cancellation of several shows, and a reevaluation of its programming lineup. The most notable casualty of this restructuring was Joy Reid’s primetime show, *The ReidOut*, which was axed along with most of its production team. Similarly, *Alex Wagner Tonight* was canceled, and host Alex Wagner was reassigned to a senior political correspondent role.
The restructuring also affected other programs, with shows hosted by Katie Phang, Jonathan Capehart, Ayman Mohyeldin, and José Díaz-Balart also being canceled. Many of these hosts and their teams were given the option to apply for new roles within the network or take severance packages. These drastic measures are part of MSNBC’s broader efforts to reshape its primetime lineup, which will now be led by heavyweights like Rachel Maddow and former Biden spokesperson Jen Psaki, who is set to host her own show.
In addition to programming changes, MSNBC is navigating a turbulent leadership transition. Rashida Jones, who had served as the president of MSNBC, resigned earlier this year as the network prepared for its spinoff from Comcast. Rebecca Kutler, who was promoted to succeed her, is now at the helm as the network tries to chart its path forward.
Comcast’s spinoff of MSNBC is part of a larger corporate strategy to streamline its operations and focus more heavily on its broadband internet services, as traditional cable TV subscriptions continue to decline. As the network moves toward independence, it is making a concerted push to bolster its reporting capabilities, with plans to hire over 100 new journalists to strengthen its news coverage.
Despite being a steady second place in ratings behind Fox News, MSNBC has seen a decline in viewership, particularly after the 2024 presidential election. Primetime ratings plummeted by a staggering 57% in the months following Election Day. Shows like *The Rachel Maddow Show* also experienced significant viewership declines, with a 22% drop in total viewership and a 29% drop among the coveted 25-54 age demographic. This trend has left MSNBC facing challenges as it enters a new phase in its history.
As Kornacki moves on to new opportunities, MSNBC faces an uncertain future. The network’s decline in ratings, compounded by a reshuffling of its lineup and leadership, leaves many wondering if it can continue to compete in an increasingly polarized media landscape.
