Former RNC Chairwoman Ronna McDaniel in Miami in November 2023. Photo: Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images
Ronna McDaniel is exploring legal options if NBC moves to terminate her contributor deal, two sources familiar told Axios, after Puck News reported Tuesday the network was planning to do so.
Why it matters: The ex-RNC chair’s hiring set off a rare on-air protest over the weekend from top talent at the network, renewing criticism over cable news’ lucrative — and often controversial — alliance with former government officials and party flacks.
- NBC has not returned Axios’ request for comment.
State of play: Carrie Budoff Brown, who leads NBC News’ politics and elections reporting, had announced previously announced McDaniel would offer an “insider’s perspective” on national politics and the Republican Party.
- However, NBC journalists were “uncomfortable” with the hiring because their interactions with the RNC while McDaniel was chair were “met with gaslighting” and “character assassination,” according to Todd.
The big picture: McDaniel was hired at NBC News after stepping down from the RNC post while facing a pressure campaign from former President Trump to force her resignation.
- Her hiring was supported unanimously by NBC News leaders, a source familiar with the conversations told Axios’ Mike Allen.
Between the lines: The network has several other Republican commentators, including Marc Short, who was chief of staff to former Vice President Mike Pence, and Brendan Buck, a former top congressional aide.
Editor’s note: This is a breaking news story. Please check back for additional details.
Go deeper: Ronna McDaniel outrage renews scrutiny of politics-to-pundit pipeline
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