NBC’s newsroom revolt isn’t the first over who should be given a platform
NBC has walked back its decision to hire Ronna McDaniel as a political contributor. The network fired her after top NBC and MSNBC personalities publicly aired grievances on their programs over the new addition to their team.
This isn’t the first time newsrooms have revolted over who and what should be allowed on their platforms.
In 2020, the decision to run an op-ed by Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., in The New York Times led to staffers being fired following criticism from fellow employees.
In the piece, Cotton said the military should be deployed to George Floyd protests. Times employees condemned their own paper on social media over publishing a divisive op-ed that they said put their lives at risk. This led to an editor’s note in the paper days later that said the piece never should have published.
Two opinion staffers were fired for letting it hit the press and another staffer resigned, criticizing the Times for bending the knee.
In another example of newsroom conflict, CNN staffers condemned the network for allowing former President Donald Trump to participate in a 2023 town hall. CNN’s Anderson Cooper and Christiane Amanpour were among those questioning former CEO Chris Licht over the decision to give Trump a platform, openly expressing concerns Trump “spread lies” to their audience — specifically over the 2020 election. Licht was fired weeks later.
Like Trump, McDaniel raised questions about election fraud in 2020. While she ultimately said Joe Biden won fair and square, she is still broadly seen as an “election denier.” It was for that reason NBC and MSNBC personalities said her affiliation with them would hurt their credibility.
Report: Days after hire, Ronna McDaniel forced out at NBC News
In what appears to be a short-lived partnership, NBC News plans to part ways with former Republican National Chair Ronna McDaniel, according to Puck News. The New York Post reported that the pending move comes after network stars, including prominent host Rachel Maddow, and other co-hosts of “Morning Joe,” criticized the decision to bring McDaniel into the fold at the network.
Chuck Todd, the former “Meet the Press” anchor, reportedly had problems with bringing McDaniel on as a paid contributor as well.
The report was made public by veteran reporter Dylan Byers, who previously worked for NBC News. As of the publishing of this report, the network has not yet offered confirmation of McDaniel’s departure.
McDaniel was hired to be an NBC News contributor on Friday, March 22. Before she even appeared on air, McDaniel made a big splash with the news. Maddow reportedly called the decision to hire McDaniel “inexplicable” during her show on Monday, March 25.
Maddow criticized McDaniel for her alignment with former President Donald Trump and her alleged involvement in undermining the electoral system.
“When the hiring was announced, and MSNBC staff announced essentially unanimously and instantaneously expressed outrage, our leadership at MSNBC heard us, understood, and adjusted course,” Maddow said. “We were told this weekend in clear terms: Ronna McDaniel will not be on air. Ronna McDaniel will not be on MSNBC.”
Similarly, Joe Scarborough and Mika Brzezinski of “Morning Joe” declared they would not invite McDaniel to their program. Scarborough claimed that MSNBC management never ask him about his or Brezinski’s opinion on the hiring of McDaniel.
Todd, now serving as NBC News Chief Political Analyst, raised concerns about McDaniel’s credibility and potential conflicts of interest given her new role as a paid contributor.
“Because I don’t know what to believe,” Todd remarked, questioning whether McDaniel’s responses in a recent interview were influenced by her contractual obligations to NBC News. He highlighted the difficulty in discerning whether she was speaking for herself or on behalf of her payers, suggesting McDaniel still has credibility issues to address.
The hiring has reportedly caused discomfort among NBC News journalists, with Todd noting their previous experiences with the RNC involved “gaslighting” and “character assassination.” He emphasized the network executives owe Welker an apology, following her interview with McDaniel, which took place just minutes before Todd’s commentary.
It is common for news outlets to hire people with political backgrounds. Another example, NBC hired former White House press secretary Jen Psaki as a contributor for its politics coverage and as a host on MSNBC.
Welker, at the start of the show, informed viewers that McDaniel’s booking occurred weeks prior to NBC’s announcement on Friday, March 22, of her hiring. During the interview, McDaniel stated that individuals charged with attacking the Capitol on January 6 should not be released, contradicting former President Trump’s claims of potential pardons. Additionally, McDaniel acknowledged President Biden’s legitimate victory in the 2020 presidential election, while still mentioning there were voting issues.
Suspects in Russia concert hall attack appear in court
The U.S. responds to Vladimir Putin’s claims after dozens are killed in a terrorist attack at a Russia concert hall, and—NBC News’ Chuck Todd calls out his own network for a recent hiring during ‘Meet the Press.’ These stories and more highlight The Morning Rundown for Monday, March 25, 2024.
Suspects in Russia concert hall attack appear in court
ISIS has claimed responsibility for a terror attack at a concert hall in Russia on Friday, March 22, resulting in the death of more than 130 people and injuring nearly 200 others.
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In response to the massacre, Russia observed a day of mourning on Sunday, March 24.The four men accused of carrying out the shooting and detonating explosives inside the venue near Moscow were brought to court, displaying visible injuries that Russian media sources suggest were the result of torture during interrogations by security services.
Court documents revealed two of the accused have pleaded guilty, although reports from Russian media indicate three confessions. The suspects, apprehended on Saturday, face life imprisonment. Russian President Vladimir Putin has asserted their intention was to flee to Kyiv, a claim Ukrainian officials have refuted.
The United States, aligning with Ukraine, has made a clear statement attributing the attack solely to ISIS, denying any Ukrainian involvement. Furthermore, U.S. officials disclosed that America had previously warned Russia about a potential terrorist attack targeting Moscow earlier in the month and had issued a public caution to Americans in Russia regarding the threat.
Trump faces deadline to secure $454 million bond amid fraud judgment
March 25 marks the deadline for former President Donald Trump to secure a $454 million bond to cover a fraud judgment against him or face the risk of asset seizure. The accusation stems from a civil fraud case alleging Trump inflated his net worth.
New York Attorney General Letitia James, who issued the judgment, granted Trump a 30-day grace period, which concludes today. Despite the lack of expected immediate action from James, the potential impact on Trump’s financial stability remains significant.
A substantial portion of Trump’s assets are in real estate, a form of collateral that bond companies typically shy away from. Consequently, Trump has encountered difficulties securing the bond, with more than 30 companies turning down his requests.
In a social media post last week, Trump claimed to have almost $500 million in cash. He has filed an appeal against the judgment, but a decision on the matter is still pending.
Kamala Harris says Israeli operation in Rafah would be a ‘huge mistake’
Vice President Kamala Harris has indicated that the United States may consider “consequences” should Israel proceed with its plans to expand military operations into the city of Rafah, amid the ongoing conflict with Hamas. In an interview with ABC News, Harris underscored the Biden administration’s opposition to an invasion of Rafah, labeling any significant military action in the area as a grave error.
“We have been clear in multiple conversations and in every way, that any major military operation in Rafah would be a huge mistake,” Harris stated, emphasizing the lack of evacuation options for the city’s residents. “Let me tell you something, I have studied the maps. There’s nowhere for those folks to go.”
The United Nations has reported that over one million people reside in Rafah, a border city, with the majority having been displaced from other parts of the territory due to the conflict.
Despite objections from the U.S., Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu remains steadfast in his plans for Rafah, recently affirming the necessity of an attack to defeat Hamas. In the coming week, the Israeli Defense Minister and a separate Israeli delegation are slated to visit Washington to discuss the Gaza war and Rafah plans with top U.S. officials.
Chuck Todd blasts NBC News for hiring former RNC Chair Ronna McDaniel
Todd, now serving as NBC News Chief Political Analyst, raised concerns about McDaniel’s credibility and potential conflicts of interest given her new role as a paid contributor.
“Because I don’t know what to believe,” Todd remarked, questioning whether McDaniel’s responses in a recent interview were influenced by her contractual obligations to NBC News. He highlighted the difficulty in discerning whether she was speaking for herself or on behalf of her payers, suggesting McDaniel still has credibility issues to address.
The hiring has reportedly caused discomfort among NBC News journalists, with Todd noting their previous experiences with the RNC involved “gaslighting” and “character assassination.” He emphasized the network executives owe Welker an apology, following her interview with McDaniel, which took place just minutes before Todd’s commentary.
Welker, at the start of the show, informed viewers that McDaniel’s booking occurred weeks prior to NBC’s announcement on Friday, March 22, of her hiring. During the interview, McDaniel stated that individuals charged with attacking the Capitol on January 6 should not be released, contradicting former President Trump’s claims of potential pardons. Additionally, McDaniel acknowledged President Biden’s legitimate victory in the 2020 presidential election, while still mentioning there were voting issues.
Ohtani to address media on gambling scandal involving former interpreter
Los Angeles Dodgers’ Shohei Ohtani is expected to address the media Monday, March 25, for the first time since the firing of his interpreter last week, amidst a gambling scandal shaking Major League Baseball. The incident raises questions about the involvement of the Japanese baseball star’s former interpreter, who was dismissed following allegations of a “massive theft” by Ohtani’s legal team. The accused is said to have diverted millions from Ohtani to cover gambling debts.
Despite the interpreter’s assertion that Ohtani was uninvolved with the gambling charges, the athlete has remained silent on the issue, including the circumstances leading to his friend and interpreter’s dismissal. Dodgers Manager Dave Roberts has publicly supported Ohtani’s decision to speak out, emphasizing the importance of transparency in the situation.
Ohtani, who last December signed the largest contract in baseball history — a 10-year agreement valued at $700 million — finds his career at a critical juncture as MLB launches an investigation into the gambling allegations linked to his former interpreter.
The league’s probe aims to uncover the depth of the gambling issue and its impact on one of baseball’s leading figures. Monday’s press conference with Ohtani is highly anticipated, offering potential clarity on his stance and the broader implications for MLB.
Global support pours in for Princess Kate after cancer diagnosis
Worldwide reactions continue to emerge after Princess Kate, the Princess of Wales and wife of Prince William, heir to the British throne, revealed she has been diagnosed with cancer. In a video released on Friday, Kate shared news of her condition and her ongoing treatment.
On Friday, March 22, a video was posted on social media by Kensington Palace detailing Kate’s health journey. “In January, I underwent major abdominal surgery in London and, at the time, it was believed my condition was non-cancerous. The surgery was successful, but subsequent tests revealed the presence of cancer,” Kate stated. She is now undergoing preventative chemotherapy and is in the early stages of treatment.
President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden expressed their support on X (formerly Twitter), saying, “Jill and I join millions around the world in praying for your full recovery, Princess Kate.”
Ivanka Trump, daughter of former President Donald Trump, also shared her sentiments: “I am deeply saddened to hear about Princess Kate’s diagnosis. Amidst the trials she faces, her strength and grace continue to shine brightly.”
Prince Harry and his wife, Meghan, offered their wishes for Kate’s health and healing, hoping for privacy and peace for the family during this time.
Amidst the outpouring of support, some public figures addressed the speculation and rumors that had spread prior to the announcement. Actress Jamie Lee Curtis urged respect and positive wishes for Kate and her family, criticizing the conspiracy theories that had been circulating on social media.
Olivia Munn, who recently disclosed her own battle with breast cancer, thanked Kate for demonstrating grace and determination in the face of adversity.
Over the weekend, Kate and William expressed their appreciation for the global support, stating they were “enormously touched by the kind messages” received from around the world. The couple’s acknowledgment highlights the widespread concern and solidarity from people and notable figures across the globe.
Ronna McDaniel offers to step down as RNC chair after meeting with Trump
Republican National Committee Chair Ronna McDaniel is in charge of fundraising for the GOP and choosing how to spend millions to campaign for the Republican Party. She has been heading the RNC since 2017, however, McDaniel is likely to step down from her position following a meeting with former President Donald Trump.
McDaniel offered to step down after the South Carolina primary on Feb. 24. The announcement came after a visit to Mar-a-Lago where she was said to have met with Trump for several hours.
Trump has voiced displeasure over the lack of funds available for Republicans to campaign with, especially during an election year where he is the party’s frontrunner.
In an interview with Fox News on Feb. 4, Trump hinted at changes in the RNC.
“I think she did OK, initially, in the RNC,” Trump said. “I would say right now, there’ll probably be some changes made.“
Morning rundown: US takes out ISIS leader; gas prices surge
The U.S. military took down a major ISIS leader, police footage of an arrest in Memphis that led to a man’s death will be released to the public Friday, the Republican national committee is taking up an important leadership vote, and gas prices have taken an unusual turn for this time of year. These stories and more highlight the daily rundown for Friday morning, Jan. 27, 2023.
U.S. military takes out ISIS leader
The U.S. has taken out a key ISIS leader and 10 other ISIS operatives in Somalia. There were no civilian or American casualties.
Officials say the U.S. and the world are safer today because of the operation. ISIS and other terror-groups are a growing threat in Somalia and surrounding regions of Africa.
President Joe Biden gave final approval to conduct the mission. The U.S. killed two top ISIS leaders in Syria last year.
Marine Corps opens new military base
The U.S. Marine Corps officially opened its first new base in 70 years on Thursday. The 4,000-acre base is on the U.S. Pacific island of Guam. It’s expected to house up to 5,000 Marines.
The formal opening of the base comes amid a broader U.S. strategy to strengthen our presence around the Pacific amid increasing tensions with China.
“The Grand Jury returned indictments against all five with the same charges. And we had previously met with the family of Tyre Nichols to go over what these charges were going to be. And that meeting with the family went rather well,” Shelby County District Attorney Steve Mulroy said.
The criminal charges come about three weeks after Nichols was hospitalized after a traffic stop and altercation with police. He died at the hospital from what his family’s attorneys call “a savage beating.” His death has resurfaced the national conversation of police brutality.
Today the nation is bracing itself as police video of the arrest is expected to be released to the public.
RNC to elect a leader today
Today the Republican National Committee will be electing their leader. It’s been a highly contentious fight for the party’s top seat to lead them into 2024.
Today’s secret-ballot vote will be the first competitive race for the position in more than a decade. There are three top candidates: current Chair Ronna McDaniel, Trump lawyer Harmeet Dhillon, asnd My Pillow CEO Mike Lindell.
In November, a preliminary look at the race had McDaniel leading. She was endorsed by 101 RNC members. 85 votes are needed to win.
Gas prices surge 40 cents in a month
Gas prices at the pump are 40 cents higher today compared with one month ago. That is 12 cents higher than this time last week.
The national average for regular gas is at $3.50 a gallon. It’s far lower than the record of $5.00 last June. But this is still an upward trend the U.S. doesn’t typically see this time of year.
Some states have it worse than others. Colorado’s gas has gone up 95 cents in just one month. Experts say it’s not demand driving up prices but rather the problem is supply.
Bear takes more than 400 selfies
How many photos does it take to get that perfect selfie? For one bear, it was more than 400.
In Boulder, Colorado, a wildlife camera that snaps pictures when it senses motion, captured a bear posing for the camera. It was showing off all sides to find the right angle.
Throughout the night, the camera snapped 500 photos, 400 of which were of the diva bear coming out of hibernation and flaunting for the camera.
Battle for RNC chair intensifies ahead of January election
The Republican Party is about to elect its leader in January, and the race has intensified. Chairwoman Ronna McDaniel is running for her fourth term. She’s being challenged by MyPillow CEO Mike Lindell, and Harmeet Dhillon, a lawyer from California who worked as a Trump campaign legal adviser.
McDaniel was handpicked by the newly elected President Donald Trump in 2016. But now she’s coming under attack. Fox News host Tucker Carlson is supporting Dhillon and recently admonished McDaniel over a report that the RNC leadership has spent millions on private jets, limousines, luxury retreats and Broadway shows.
“And you’re losing elections? No! If you win elections, we can talk about it. If you’re losing, get out! We cannot reward incompetence” Carlson said at the Turning Point USA festival.
The Texas Republican Party unanimously approved a resolution that said the national party needs new leadership. Texas GOP Chair Matt Rinaldi then came out in support of Dhillon. The Florida Republican party is also set to hold a vote of no confidence on McDaniel two weeks before the election.
Today I sent a letter with 30 signees to the Chairman of the @FloridaGOP calling for a special meeting of the RPOF in order to vote on whether Ronna McDaniel should be terminated as RNC Chair
The biggest criticism of McDaniel is the election losses. Ever since she became chairwoman, Republicans have lost the White House, the House and Senate. In the 2022 midterms when they were projected to do well, they lost a seat in the Senate and barely won the House. McDaniel said she did well getting out the vote and blamed the losses on ticket splitting.
“So we got to start coming together, guys. Because the Democrats are worse. So let’s stop bashing each other and let’s remember–we are only going to win as a united party in 2024,” McDaniel said in an interview with Fox News.
The winner will have a big hand in helping the 2024 Republican presidential nominee win their election. The winner will also help decide and coordinate where the party spends millions of dollars in an effort to take back the Senate majority and expand the razor thin House majority.
Republican National Committee sues Google over ‘political bias’ in email spam algorithm
The Republican National Committee has sued Google over “political bias” on its email platform, Gmail. The party claimed that conservative candidates’ emails are being automatically sorted into Gmail’s spam folders.
“We need to find a way to keep big tech’s thumb off the scale in our elections and our democracy,” RNC Chairwoman Ronna McDaniel said. “Because they should not be able to suppress emails that we’re sending to people who asked for us to send these emails.”
Google denied the accusations, saying it does not filter emails based on political affiliation. However, it does filter based on users’ actions through “spam filtering algorithms” (SFAs). They are designed to recognize undesired, unsolicited, or suspicious emails, then redirect them into the spam folder.
Apparently, those algorithms can favor one political party’s messages and hide another’s as spam.
A 2020 North Carolina State University study found political biases in Gmail, Outlook and Yahoo’s SFAs. Gmail, specifically, leaned to the left by marking 59.3% more emails from conservative candidates as spam. Google reportedly pushed back, reiterating to Fox News that politics has no bearing on mail classifications in Gmail.
In April, the RNC asked the Federal Election Commission to investigate. The commission approved a Google pilot program called the “Verified Sender Program.” It allows participants to bypass the spam filter – unless the user opts out of receiving future messages.