MS NOW Shifts Towards a More Liberal Identity

MS NOW, formerly known as MSNBC, is set to undergo a significant transformation in its programming aimed at embracing a more liberal stance, according to network officials. On Wednesday, they announced a notable reshuffle of their on-air talent that will take effect in June.

Notably, the straight news program led by Ana Cabrera will be discontinued as she departs from the network, while Chris Jansing is appointed as MS NOW’s chief political reporter. Liberal host Stephanie Ruhl will move from her 9 a.m. slot, previously held by the fourth hour of Morning Joe, handing over the evening “11th Hour” program to Ali Velshi, who usually works weekends.

Alicia Menendez, co-host of “The Weeknight,” will take on the afternoon show, with Luke Russert stepping into her former role alongside colleagues Simone Sanders-Townsend and Michael Steele. On weekends, reporter Jacob Soboroff will fill Velshi’s previous time slot.

A network insider revealed to FOX News Digital that MS NOW is shifting away from the prior management style that emphasized a clear division between editorial programming during the day and prime time. The source referenced the past guidance from the former chairman from 2015 to 2020, suggesting that distinctions between news and commentary have blurred significantly.

According to the insiders, the decline of CNN’s influence has encouraged MS NOW to pivot even further in a direction that resonates with its viewers. The success of Nicole Wallace’s “Deadline: The White House,” which reportedly draws audiences similar to those of prime-time shows, was cited as a driving force behind this new strategy.

“We’ve learned that if you stop pretending to be CNN for half of the lineup, you can create something that resonates with different audiences throughout the day,” remarked MS NOW staff. They asserted that the changes will result in broadcasts that feel distinctly like MS NOW.

During a recent editorial meeting, MS NOW president Rebecca Kutler stressed the need to inject personality into all programming hours. An official mentioned feeling more optimistic about the network’s direction compared to the past, particularly in response to the evolving political landscape under Donald Trump.

Another insider shared that the separation from NBC News has proven beneficial for the network, allowing them to define their identity and audience more clearly. They expressed confidence in avoiding the pitfalls that befell CNN as they sought an elusive cable audience.

As MS NOW continues to reshape its identity and lineup, it remains to be seen how these changes will impact viewer engagement and market positioning.