Many viewers have noticed a prominent political analyst missing from their MSNBC lineup recently: Steve Schmidt. While questions arise about why Steve Schmidt isn’t on MSNBC anymore, the veteran political strategist has embarked on a new chapter in his media career, joining Scripps News as a contributor. This move marks a significant development for both Schmidt and Scripps News, offering audiences a fresh platform to hear his insightful analysis.
[Steve Schmidt headshot for Scripps News contributor role, showcasing his serious and experienced demeanor.]
Steve Schmidt’s New Home: Scripps News
Scripps News officially announced the addition of Steve Schmidt to their network on February 21, 2024. Schmidt, known for his decades of experience in American politics, is set to contribute to various programs across the Scripps News network. His debut took place on Monday, February 26th, and he is now providing political analysis throughout the week on different shows. Brian Donlon, Scripps News’ senior director of live news, highlighted Schmidt’s valuable contribution, stating, “For decades, Steve has modeled the kind of honest, productive dialogue that is a hallmark of our political coverage at Scripps News. Steve’s deep expertise and candid style are a great fit with our mission to inform, engage and empower the audiences we serve.”
Schmidt himself expressed enthusiasm about joining Scripps News, emphasizing the network’s commitment to truth-seeking in today’s media landscape. “I’m thrilled to be joining Scripps News, a disruptor in the media industry, because I believe in its mission and vision,” Schmidt stated. “The truth can be hard to find these days, and the Scripps News team is committed to ethical journalism.” This statement suggests a potential alignment of values as a key factor in Schmidt’s decision to join Scripps News.
Steve Schmidt’s Departure from MSNBC: A New Chapter
While the announcement doesn’t explicitly detail “why isn’t Steve Schmidt on MSNBC anymore,” it implicitly marks the end of his ten-year tenure as an analyst with MSNBC. The focus is clearly on his exciting new role at Scripps News, framing it as a forward-looking move. Schmidt’s background speaks volumes about his expertise. He gained national recognition as campaign manager for Senator John McCain’s 2008 presidential campaign. His political acumen extends to successfully leading California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger’s re-election campaign in 2006 and serving as a top strategist in President George W. Bush’s 2004 re-election campaign. His experience also includes significant roles within the Bush administration, including leading the confirmations of two U.S. Supreme Court justices.
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Close-up headshot of political strategist Steve Schmidt, highlighting his insightful and analytical expression.]
Beyond his work in traditional political campaigns, Schmidt co-founded the Lincoln Project in 2019, a super PAC that gained considerable attention. While he departed from the group in 2021, his involvement underscores his continued engagement in the political discourse. Now, at Scripps News, viewers can anticipate seeing Schmidt contribute across various programs:
- “Morning Rush”: Mondays, 7 a.m.- noon ET.
- “The Race”: Wednesdays, 6-7 p.m. ET, focusing on the impact of politics on everyday lives across America.
- “The Race Weekend”: Saturdays and Sundays, 9 a.m. ET, where he will periodically appear as a panelist and present “Plays of the Week,” analyzing key political campaign moments.
What to Expect from Steve Schmidt on Scripps News
Steve Schmidt’s move to Scripps News presents a valuable opportunity for viewers seeking in-depth political analysis. His commitment to “ethical journalism” as highlighted in his statement, coupled with Scripps News’ mission to deliver “opinion-free national news,” suggests a focus on factual, unbiased reporting and commentary. Furthermore, Schmidt’s independent digital media company, The Warning, encompassing a daily newsletter, podcast, and YouTube channel, showcases his dedication to discussing critical events and often-overlooked forces shaping American culture and politics. This independent platform, combined with his new role at Scripps News, expands his reach and influence in the media landscape.
For those wondering about Steve Schmidt’s absence from MSNBC, the answer lies in his exciting new venture with Scripps News. Viewers can now find him contributing his expertise and analysis to Scripps News programs throughout the week, offering a fresh perspective on the current political climate. To watch Steve Schmidt and stay informed with Scripps News, viewers can find the network over-the-air, on various streaming devices and platforms, and online at ScrippsNews.com.
