Dropped By MSNBC, Joan Walsh Goes To CNN

MSNBC has not renewed its contract with Joan Walsh, a political analyst who had appeared on the network for years.

The NYTimes reports Walsh, who is also a national affairs correspondent for The Nation and was previously the editor in chief of Salon, lamented the decision on Saturday on Twitter, saying she had learned her fate the night before while baking with her daughter.

So it’s true: after 12 years on MSNBC, six on contract, I learned Friday night they are not renewing. I’ve given my heart and soul to the network, from the George W. Bush years through today. I’m proud of the work I did.

— Joan Walsh (@joanwalsh) December 23, 2017

Ms. Walsh said in her tweet that she had worked with MSNBC for a dozen years, including six on contract. Network officials issued a statement calling Ms. Walsh “a key voice on MSNBC for years.”

“Every year we review our paid contributors list across the ideological spectrum,” the statement said. “Unfortunately we couldn’t renew Joan, but she and her distinct perspective will still be invited on our shows.”

Officials said she would be welcome on MSNBC but as an unpaid contributor. Officials said the decision not to renew her contract was made based on the network’s budget and a desire to keep a diverse set of voices on the air.

She had appeared regularly on “Hardball” and “All In” on the network.

Later on Saturday night, Ms. Walsh said on Twitter that she would be joining CNN next year.

I am overwhelmed by the support I've received today from all of you. And I'm thrilled to tell you I'll be heading to @CNN in the new year. Thanks to everyone who made this happen. A Christmas miracle.

— Joan Walsh (@joanwalsh) December 24, 2017

A CNN spokeswoman confirmed late Saturday that Ms. Walsh would be joining the network as a commentator.

The network has leaned heavily on opinionated commentators — mostly facilitated by a stable of liberal anchors — and growing interest in the news to foster its rise. MSNBC this year surged into the top spot in prime-time cable news for the first time in 17 years.