MSNBC

New York Observer Profiles MSNBC's Dylan Ratigan

news@newsonnews.net (Talking Biz News) — Sat, 07 Jan 2012 18:48:45 +0000

Foster Kamer of the New York Observer profiles MSNBC’s Dylan Ratigan, who previously worked as a business journalist at Bloomberg News and CNBC, and got his opinion of how financial journalism has performed in the past few years.

Kamer writes, “Primarily, he cites the financial meltdown, and what he sees as the financial press’s failure to prevent it, see it coming, or at minimum explain it to viewers.

“”It’s negligent,’ Mr. Ratigan said, ‘to be in the national media covering a national unemployment crisis, covering a national housing crisis, covering a national education crisis, covering a national poverty crisis,’ and not be communicating the basic underlying principles to your audience.

“For instance, the idea that credit derivatives are not backed by actual assets, he said, ‘is utterly insulting beyond all comprehension. It’s one of those things where the more you learn about it, the more horrifying it becomes.’

“And the Obama administration hasn’t helped matters, he said. ‘We’ve seen no change. We’ve seen the Obama administration and [Treasury Secretary Timothy] Geithner actually codify and advance’ the broken system. ‘Instead of blaming George Bush or Bill Clinton or Barack Obama, you realize that they’re all doing it!’

“As for financial journalism’s role in the economic meltdown, he said, ‘It’s grossly disappointing.’ He laughed. ‘What do you want me to tell you? It’s embarrassing.’”

NBC News to Launch on the Roku Platform

news@newsonnews.net (Newsdesk) — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 01:25:55 +0000

The msnbc Digital Network and Roku today announced that the two companies will launch NBC News on the Roku streaming platform.

With NBC News on Roku, viewers will be able to instantly access NBC News video – streamed to their TVs for convenient, on-demand viewing from the comfort of home. Available on all Roku streaming players, NBC News will join Roku’s large and growing collection of news and entertainment channels. NBC News is available on Roku for free.

"The Msnbc Digital Network continues to expand its position as the number one news video destination by supporting new devices and platforms,” said Charlie Tillinghast, President, Msnbc Digital Network. "The addition of Roku offers yet another platform to make NBC News' world-class video more accessible than ever."

NBC News on Roku provides instant access to the latest segments from NBC News programs including “NBC Nightly News with Brian Williams,” America’s number one evening newscast, “TODAY,” America’s number one morning program, and “Meet the Press,” America’s number one Sunday public affairs program in addition to the latest clips from “The Rachel Maddow Show” and “Morning Joe.”

“Our goal at NBC News is to deliver high-quality journalism to audiences whether it be on-air, online or on-demand,” said Vivian Schiller, Chief Digital Officer, NBC News. “Through this partnership with Roku, users can now access segments from America’s number one news programs at their convenience, using a platform that is simple and seamless.”

Roku is the leading streaming platform, delivering news and entertainment to more than one million customers in the U.S. The award-winning Roku players are renowned for their ease of use, value and selection of content.

“NBC News has always been a staple in my home, as I’m sure it has been in countless other homes,” said Ed Lee, vice president of content acquisition at Roku. “Today I’m excited to announce the launch of the NBC News channel on the Roku platform. Now Roku customers can stream clips from some of the nation’s top news programming through their Roku players.”

MSNBC Continues to Perform Strongly against CNN in November 2011

news@newsonnews.net (Newsdesk) — Mon, 05 Dec 2011 21:13:49 +0000

MSNBC continues to top CNN in primetime and all key dayparts, including total day and primetime, according to data from Nielsen Media Research.

In November, MSNBC also out-rated CNN in the morning and every hour from 5p through midnight in both total viewers and A25-54.

Following are MSNBC ratings highlights for November:

• In November, MSNBC beat CNN in total day (M-Su 6a-6a) among total viewers (427,000 vs. 409,000) and A25-54 (139,000 vs. 122,000). November marked CNN’s lowest total day A25-54 audience since December 2010.

• MSNBC weekday primetime out-rated CNN’s primetime in both total viewers (865,000 vs. 722,000) and A25-54 (227,000 vs. 210,000). For the month, CNN delivered its lowest M-F prime A25-54 audience since April 2011.

• "Morning Joe" continues as the No. 2 cable morning news program topping CNN’s “American Morning” by 72% among total viewers (436,000 vs. 253,000) and by 47% among A25-54 (152,000 vs. 103,000). This is the 8th consecutive month “Morning Joe” has topped CNN among total viewers and A25-54. November also marks “Morning Joe’s” best A25-54 delivery since July 2011 and CNN’s lowest A25-54 delivery since July 2011. In addition, “Way Too Early” (5:30a-6:00a) topped CNN by 58% among A25-54 (105,000 vs. 67,000) and 46% among total viewers (222,000 vs. 152,000).

• MSNBC daytime increased 27% among total viewers and 16% among A25-54 compared to Nov. 2010, the most cable news growth in the daypart.

• At 6 p.m., “PoliticsNation” hosted by Rev. Al Sharpton beat CNN’s “John King USA” by 50% among total viewers (767,000 vs. 512,000) and by 41% in the demo of A25-54 (171,000 vs. 121,000). This is MSNBC’s best A25-54 6p program delivery since Dec. 2010 and the lowest 6p delivery for CNN since August 2010.

• “Hardball with Chris Matthews” at 7 p.m beat CNN among total viewers (844,000 vs. 510,000) for the 8th straight month and in A25-54 (202,000 vs. 140,000) for the 6th consecutive month. This was “Hardball’s” best A25-54 delivery at 7p since May 2011 and CNN’s lowest A25-54 program delivery since June 2011.

• “The Ed Show” at 8 p.m. topped CNN’s “Anderson Cooper 360” among total viewers (944,000 vs. 648,000), making November the 45th consecutive month MSNBC has topped CNN in the hour. “Ed” also beat “Anderson” among A25-54 (201,000 vs. 191,000). This is MSNBC’s best A25-54 program delivery in the 8p hour since July 2011. The re-air of “The Ed Show” at 11p ranked No. 2 in the hour among both total viewers and A25-54.

• "The Rachel Maddow Show" surpassed CNN’s “Piers Morgan Tonight” for the month of November among all key demos, marking the 22nd consecutive monthly win over CNN in total viewers. Maddow beat CNN by 59% in total viewers (983,000 vs. 620,000) and 70% among A25-54 (262,000 vs. 154,000). This is Maddow’s best A25-54 delivery since August 2011 and the lowest demo performance for “Piers Morgan Tonight” since the show’s debut. The midnight encore airing of TRMS also ranked No. 2 among total viewers and A25-54.

• “The Last Word” at 10 p.m. ranked No.2, beating CNN among total viewers (868,000 vs. 675,000) and A25-54 (227,000 vs. 221,000). This is MSNBC’s best program delivery among A25-54 in the M-Th 10p hour since July 2011 and the lowest delivery for Anderson Cooper since Jan. 2011.

• “Up with Chris Hayes” on Sunday (8a-10a) ranked No. 2 for the month with A25-54 (154,000 vs. 152,000), topping CNN Sunday Morning/State of the Union. “Up” is up 25% among A25-54 and 45% in total viewers compared to MSNBC in Nov. 2010.

• MSNBC is No. 1 among African American viewers (P2+) for the 22nd consecutive month in primetime.

• MSNBC Longform ranks No. 1 in Weekend Sales Prime (Saturday and Sunday 7p-2a) among adults 25-54 for the third consecutive month. Among younger viewers A18-34, Longform ranks No. 1 for the 37th consecutive month.

Megan McCain Joins MSNBC as a Contributor

news@newsonnews.net (Newsdesk) — Wed, 23 Nov 2011 19:56:50 +0000

Meghan McCain has joined MSNBC as a contributor, with her first appearance today at noon ET on “NOW with Alex Wagner.” She has been a frequent MSNBC guest since 2009.

"I couldn't more be excited to be joining the MSNBC family,” said McCain. “It's a unique opportunity to share my perspective as a Republican on a network I respect and have built a relationship with over the past two years."

As the daughter of U.S. Senator John McCain, Meghan McCain was propelled into the national spotlight at an early age. Her unparalleled exposure to American politics gave her the opportunity to hear voters debate the most complex issues first-hand. McCain’s time on the campaign trail with her father inspired her acclaimed memoir, “Dirty Sexy Politics.” The book chronicles her personal journey across the American political landscape. Campaigning with her father also inspired McCain to publish “My Dad, John McCain,” an illustrated children's book that brings her father's heroic story to life.

As a columnist for The Daily Beast, she passionately discusses women's issues, social issues, marriage equality and her firm belief that there is room for all walks of life in the GOP. While in college, McCain worked at Newsweek magazine and Saturday Night Live. She is a graduate of Columbia University and currently resides in New York City.

MSNBC Sees over 161 Million Video Streams in October

news@newsonnews.net (Newsdesk) — Wed, 23 Nov 2011 19:23:42 +0000

The MSNBC Digital Network saw October video traffic soar with more than 161 million online video streams, 31 percent more than CNN’s 123 million streams and more than ABCNews Digital, CBS News and FOXNEWs.com's online video stream totals combined.

Consumers turned to the digital network for NBC News’ world-class video and exclusive reports on the latest breaking international, business, political and entertainment news, including: Gadhafi’s capture, the Amanda Knox verdict, the latest developments in the Bachman campaign, the search for missing baby Lisa, Giuliana Rancic’s breast cancer revelation and Steven Tyler’s accident recovery.

The Msnbc Digital Network was a top video news site on the Internet in October 2011:

· Msnbc Digital Network: 161.7 million video streams

· CNN Digital Network: 123.6 million video streams

· HPMG News (Huffington Post Media Group): 103 million video streams

· ABCNews Digital: 49.5 million video streams

· FOXNEWS.com: 32 million video streams

· CBS News: 14.7 million video streams

The Msnbc Digital Network was also a top ranked news site in unique video users, more than 21.2 million unique video visitors in October, 2011, topping CNN Digital Network, HPMG, ABCNews Digital, FOXNEWS.com and CBS News.

MSNBC Continues to Top CNN in Primetime Total Viewers

news@newsonnews.net (Newsdesk) — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 19:59:36 +0000

MSNBC continues to top CNN in primetime among total viewers (808,000 vs. 723,000), according to data from Nielsen Media Research.

MSNBC also ranked No. 1 for the month among A18-34 in total day (Monday – Sunday 6a -6a). During the first week of MSNBC’s new primetime schedule (Oct. 24-28), the network dominated CNN with a 60% lead among total viewers and also topped CNN among A25-54 and A18-49.

Following are MSNBC ratings highlights for October:

• "Morning Joe" continues as the No. 2 cable morning news program topping CNN’s “American Morning” by 55% among total viewers (390,000 vs. 252,000) and by 34% among A25-54 (141,000 vs. 105,000). This is the 7th consecutive month “Morning Joe” has topped CNN among total viewers and the 7th straight month among A25-54. In addition, “Way Too Early with Willie Geist” (5:30-6a) was No. 2 among A25-54 (88,000 vs. 66,000 for) and total viewers (183,000 vs. 143,000) for the month and ranked No. 1 among A18-34.

• Compared to October 2010, MSNBC Daytime (Monday-Friday 9a-5p) increased 23% among total viewers (344,000 vs 280,000) and 5% among A25-54 (85,000 vs 81,000).

• At 6 p.m., “PoliticsNation” hosted by Rev. Al Sharpton beat CNN’s “John King USA” by 38% among total viewers (655,000 vs. 475,000) and by 19% in the demo of A25-54 (145,000 vs. 122,000).

• “Hardball with Chris Matthews” at 7 p.m. beat CNN among total viewers (769,000 vs. 490,000) for the 7th straight month and in A25-54 (176,000 vs. 146,000) for the 5th consecutive month.

• The combination of “The Last Word” and “The Ed Show” at 8 p.m. topped CNN’s “Anderson Cooper 360” by 54% among total viewers (843,000 vs. 546,000), making October the 44th consecutive month MSNBC has topped CNN in the hour. In its debut week at 8 p.m., “The Ed Show” beat “Anderson Cooper 360” by 7% among 25-54 (188,000 vs. 176,000).

• "The Rachel Maddow Show" beat CNN’s “Piers Morgan Tonight” for the month of October among all key demos, marking the 21st consecutive monthly win over CNN in total viewers. Maddow beat CNN by 45% in total viewers (855,000 vs. 589,000) and 22% among A25-54 (214,000 vs. 176,000).

• “The Ed Show” and “The Last Word” at 10 p.m. ranked No. 2 among total viewers, beating CNN by 24% (815,000 vs. 657,000). In the premiere week of “The Last Word” at 10p, MSNBC topped CNN by 19% among A25-54 (232,000 vs. 195,000).

• MSNBC is No. 1 among African American viewers (P2+) for the 21st consecutive month in primetime.

• MSNBC Longform ranks No. 1 in Weekend Sales Prime (Satuday and Sunday 7p-2a) among adults 25-54. Among younger viewers A18-34, Longform ranks No. 1 for the 36th consecutive month.

MSNBC Reshuffles Primetime Schedule

news@newsonnews.net (Newsdesk) — Wed, 19 Oct 2011 18:56:37 +0000

Starting Monday, October 24th, “The Last Word with Lawrence O’Donnell” will move back to its original time slot of 10 p.m. ET/PT, Monday-Thursday.

“The Ed Show” with Ed Schultz will lead off MSNBC’s primetime lineup each weeknight at 8 p.m. ET/PT. The announcement was made today by Phil Griffin, President of MSNBC. “The Rachel Maddow Show” will continue to air live at 9 p.m. ET/PT.

“This move will strengthen the flow of our programming throughout the evening. As the name implies, “The Last Word” belongs at the conclusion of our programming day, thoughtfully wrapping-up the day’s political dialogue,” said Griffin. “Ed’s passionate voice is a perfect kick off to primetime at 8 p.m.”

“The Last Word with Lawrence O’Donnell” debuted in September 2010 at 10 p.m. ET/PT on MSNBC and moved to the 8 p.m. ET/PT time slot in January 2011. “The Ed Show” launched in April 2009 at 6 p.m. ET on MSNBC and replaced “The Last Word” at 10 pm ET/PT in January 2011.

Izzy Povich is the senior executive producer of “The Last Word with Lawrence O’Donnell” and Greg Kordick is executive producer. Rich Stockwell is the executive producer of “The Ed Show.”

MSNBC to Broadcast Live Coverage of Martin Luther King Jr Memorial Dedication

news@newsonnews.net (Newsdesk) — Sun, 16 Oct 2011 12:49:50 +0000

MSNBC will honor the legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr. with special weekend coverage of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Dedication Ceremony in Washington, D.C. on Sunday, October 16.

On Sunday, October 16, from 8:00 – 10:00 a.m. ET, MSNBC’s ‘Up w/ Chris Hayes,’ will have live coverage of the dedication ceremony in Washington, including a look at some rarely seen footage from the NBC archives and discussion of how King’s legacy plays into today’s movements for social change. Joining host Chris Hayes will be Melissa Harris-Perry, professor of political science at Tulane University, Bob Herbert, Demos Distinguished Senior Fellow and John McWhorter, a professor at Columbia University.

Live coverage of the memorial ceremony will continue Sunday on ‘Weekends with Alex Witt,’ from 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. ET, with additional reporting from NBC News correspondents.

As an additional tribute, leading up to the historical unveiling of the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, MSNBC will air personal testimonials on the life of Martin Luther King Jr., the memorial and the Civil Rights movement from MSNBC’s team of anchors.

MSNBC Beats CNN in Primetime for Q3 2011

news@newsonnews.net (Newsdesk) — Tue, 27 Sep 2011 15:43:00 +0000

MSNBC continued to top CNN in primetime for 3rd quarter of 2011, finishing ahead of the formerly dominant news network for the 8^th consecutive quarter.

MSNBC continues to top CNN in the mornings as well, with “Morning Joe” beating “American Morning” for the seventh consecutive quarter. MSNBC topped CNN at 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10 p.m. in 3Q 2011 and “Morning Joe,” “Hardball” at 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. and “The Rachel Maddow Show” are all up double digits compared to 3^rd quarter of 2010. Following are ratings highlights for 3Q 2011:

MSNBC beat CNN in primetime for 3Q 2011 (756,000 vs. 676,000) in total viewers and in A25-54 (244,000 vs. 221,000). This marks the 8^th consecutive quarterly victory.
In 3Q 2011, “Morning Joe” surpassed third place CNN’s “American Morning” among total viewers (442,000 vs. 268,000) and HLN’s Robin Meade (442,000 vs. 341,000). This marks the 7^th consecutive quarter “Morning Joe” has topped “American Morning” and the 15^th consecutive quarter the program has beaten HLN. “Morning Joe” also continued to top CNN in A25-54 in 3Q 2011 (152,000 vs. 110,000). Compared to 3Q 2010, “Morning Joe” is up 36% among total viewers and 19% among A25-54 in 3Q 2011.
At 5 p.m., “Hardball with Chris Matthews” topped CNN’s “Situation Room” for the quarter in both total viewers (689,000 vs. 667,000) and A25-54 (163,000 vs. 160,000). Compared to 3Q 2010, “Hardball” at 5 p.m. is up 32% among total viewers and 19% among A25-54 in 3Q 2011.
At 6 p.m., where the network now airs “PoliticsNation” with Al Sharpton, MSNBC topped CNN in total viewers for 3Q 2011 (598,000 vs. 591,000).
The 7 p.m. airing of “Hardball with Chris Matthews” finished 3Q 2011 well ahead of CNN, by 39% in total viewers (710,000 vs. 509,000) and A25-54 (181,000 vs. 160,000). This is the 8^th consecutive quarter MSNBC has topped CNN at 7 p.m. Compared to 3Q10, “Hardball” is up 22% in total viewers and 6% among A25-54.
At 8 p.m., “The Last Word with Lawrence O’Donnell,” MSNBC continued to top CNN in 3Q11 in total viewers (840,000 vs. 612,000) and among A25-54 (200,000 vs. 187,000). This marks the 14^th consecutive quarter ranking #2 at 8 p.m. in total viewers and the 20^th consecutive quarter topping CNN among A25-54.
“The Rachel Maddow Show” finished 3Q 2011 well ahead of CNN at 9 p.m., topping “Piers Morgan Tonight” by 34% in total viewers (927,000 vs. 694,000) and 30% among adults 25-54 (274,000 vs. 211,000). Compared to 3Q 2010, TRMS is up 11% among total viewers and 3% among A25-54 in 3Q 2011.
At 10 p.m. “The Ed Show” with Ed Schultz beat CNN’s “AC 360” in 3Q 2011 (804,000 vs. 750,000) for the 5^th consecutive quarter. Compared to 3Q10, “The Ed Show” has grown MSNBC’s 10 p.m. audience 38% in total viewers and 22% among A25-54 in 3Q11.
MSNBC is #1 in delivering African American viewers (2+) for the 7^thconsecutive quarter in M-Su Primetime.
MSNBC Longform ranks #1 in Weekend Primetime (Saturday – Sunday 7 p.m. – 2 a.m.) among adults 25-54 for the 6^th consecutive quarter and beat CNN for the 12^th straight quarter.

'Up with Chris Hayes' to Debut on MSNBC September 17th

news@newsonnews.net (Newsdesk) — Thu, 15 Sep 2011 10:29:23 +0000

Up with Chris Hayes will debut this weekend on MSNBC, live on Saturdays from 7:00-9:00 a.m. ET and Sundays from 8:00-10:00 a.m. ET.

The program will have a focus on politics including the day’s top headlines, newsmaker interviews, and panels of pundits, politicos and voices from outside the mainstream.

House Democratic Leader Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) will join Hayes live in-studio for the premiere broadcast of “Up w/ Chris Hayes” on Saturday, September 17.

Chris Hayes, a frequent substitute host for “The Rachel Maddow Show” and “The Last Word with Lawrence O’Donnell,” continues as an MSNBC contributor and is Editor-at-Large of The Nation.

Jonathan Larsen is the Executive Producer of “Up w/ Chris Hayes.” Larsen was previously a senior producer on “Countdown” and has worked at both CNN and ABC News.

Republican Presidential Debate Proves a Ratings Hit for MSNBC

news@newsonnews.net (Newsdesk) — Sat, 10 Sep 2011 13:24:24 +0000

The Republican Presidential Debate that aired on MSNBC last night drew 5.4 million viewers, soundly out-rating both FNC and CNN in total viewers and the key adult demographic, with 5,411,000 in total viewers and 1,728,000 viewers in the A25-54 demo, according to program data from Nielsen Media Research.

Below are ratings highlights from the MSNBC GOP Debate on Sept. 7, 2011;

The GOP Debate on MSNBC delivered 1,728,000 A25-54 and 5,411,000 Total Viewers from 8-949p. MSNBC out-rated the GOP Debate that ran on FNC last month (8/11/11) among both Adults 25-54 and Total Viewers. Of the 4 Republican Debates that have occurred thus far, MSNBC's is the highest rated to-date, including 2 Debates on Fox News Channel
MSNBC Prime (8-11p) averaged 1,370,000 ranking #1 for the night. This is the strongest MSNBC prime delivery since Election Day 2008 (11/4/08). Among Total Viewers MSNBC Prime averaged 4,356,000 also ranking #1 for the night and the best since the 2008 Election.
Following the debate, analysis with the MSNBC team delivered 817,000 in the A25-54 ranking #1 in the slot
MSNBC debate analysis delivered 2,719,000 in overall viewers also ranking #1 in the slot

MSNBC Beats CNN in Primetime in Total Viewers for August 2011

news@newsonnews.net (Newsdesk) — Sun, 04 Sep 2011 12:48:45 +0000

MSNBC continued to beat CNN in primetime among total viewers for the month of August 2011, according to data from Nielsen Media Research.

MSNBC topped CNN by 15% among total viewers in Monday – Friday primetime (815,000 vs. CNN’s 708,000). MSNBC also topped CNN in the morning with "Morning Joe" ranking #2 among total viewers for the 5th consecutive month.

Following are MSNBC ratings highlights for August:

"Morning Joe" ranked #2 beating CNN’s "American Morning" among total viewers (438,000 vs. 283,000 CNN) and A25-54 (143,000 vs. 122,000). This is the 5th consecutive month “Morning Joe” has ranked #2 among total viewers, beating "American Morning" for the 5th straight month and HLN's "Morning Express with Robin Meade" for the 20th consecutive month. Compared to August 2010, “Morning Joe” is up 21% in total viewers and 32% among A25-54.

At 7 p.m., "Hardball" topped CNN's "John King USA" in both total viewers (696,000 vs. 531,000) and among A25-54 (178,000 vs. 173,000). Compared to August 2010, "Hardball" at 7 p.m. is up 24% in total viewers and 5% among A25-54. This is the 5th consecutive month “Hardball” has topped CNN in total viewers and the 3rd straight month beating CNN among A25-54.

At 8 p.m., MSNBC topped CNN for the 42nd consecutive month among total viewers. "The Last Word with Lawrence O’Donnell" beat CNN by 28% among total viewers (813,000 vs. CNN’s 637,000) for the month.

"The Rachel Maddow Show" beat CNN's "Piers Morgan Tonight" at 9 p.m. for the month of August by 23% among total viewers (916,000 vs. 746,000) and by 22% among A25-54 (275,000 vs. 226,000), marking the 19th consecutive monthly win over CNN in total viewers. Compared to August 2010, Maddow is up 12% among total viewers and up 20% in A25-54.

"The Ed Show" at 10 p.m. topped "Anderson Cooper" on CNN in total viewers (769,000 vs. 760,000). Compared to MSNBC at 10 p.m. in August 2010, "The Ed Show" is up 37% in total viewers and 11% in A25-54.

MSNBC is #1 in delivering African American viewers (P2+) for the 19th consecutive month in M-Su Primetime.

MSNBC to Air GOP Presidential Debate from Regan Library September 7th

news@newsonnews.net (Newsdesk) — Fri, 02 Sep 2011 10:38:37 +0000

MSNBC will broadcast the GOP Presidential Candidates debate at the Reagan Library from 8-9:45p ET on Wednesday, September 7.

Live analysis will follow the conclusion of the debate, beginning at 9:45p ET and continuing until midnight ET. Debate analysis will come from MSNBC’s primetime anchors including Rachel Maddow, Chris Matthews from Reagan Library, Ed Schultz, Lawrence O’Donnell and Rev. Al Sharpton.

MSNBC’s political analysts will also weigh in, including Washington Post’s Eugene Robinson, Fmr. RNC Chairman Michael Steele, The Nation’s Melissa Harris-Perry, Huffington Post’s Howard Fineman and Alex Wagner, Georgetown University’s Michael Eric Dyson and GOP Strategist Steve Schmidt.

MSNBC will re-air the debate in its entirety as well as the post-debate analysis at midnight ET.

MSNBC Websites Deliver Big During Hurricane Irene

news@newsonnews.net (Newsdesk) — Tue, 30 Aug 2011 09:11:38 +0000

The Msnbc Digital Network served more than 101 million page views and more than 24.8 million storm-related video streams as millions of consumers watched NBC News’ video to get the latest information and updates on Hurricane Irene.

Several sites across the Msnbc Digital Network experienced a significant increase in traffic, including BreakingNews.com.

From Libya and the East Coast earthquake to Hurricane Irene, BreakingNews.com will end the month with its second-highest traffic ever, eclipsed only by the Japan tsunami in March.

From Thursday, August 25 through Monday, August 29 (at noon, ET), @breakingnews and @breakingstorm added nearly 50,000 Twitter followers.
The BreakingNews team worked 24/7 throughout the entire Irene story, publishing 650 updates, tweets, photos and videos from dozens of news organizations and eyewitnesses. The site also saw a significant spike in unique visitors and time spent.

Al Sharpton Named as Host of PoliticsNation on MSNBC

news@newsonnews.net (Newsdesk) — Thu, 25 Aug 2011 09:00:50 +0000

Reverend Al Sharpton, the civil rights activist and minister, has been named host of “PoliticsNation,” a nightly program airing weeknights live at 6 p.m. ET on MSNBC.

The announcement was made by Phil Griffin, President of MSNBC.

“PoliticsNation” will debut on August 29. In his new role, Sharpton will lead a lively and informed discussion of the top headlines, bringing viewers his take on events in his signature style.

“I’ve known Rev. Sharpton for over a decade and have tremendous respect for him. He has always been one of our most thoughtful and entertaining guests,” said Griffin. “I’m thrilled that he’s now reached a point in his career where he’s able to devote himself to hosting a nightly show. ‘PoliticsNation’ is going to be an incredibly strong kick-off to our evening schedule.”

In addition to being a frequent guest on MSNBC throughout the network’s history, Rev. Sharpton has also served as an occasional guest host on several programs, most recently on “MSNBC Live at 6PM” and “The Ed Show.” He joins the network at a time where MSNBC has experienced tremendous ratings growth, consistently topping CNN in primetime programming.

"I am very happy and honored to join the MSNBC team as we collectively try to get America to ’Lean Forward,’" said Sharpton. "It is a natural extension of my life work and growth. We all learn from our pain and stand up from our stumbling and one must either learn to lean forward or fall backwards. I'm glad they have given me the opportunity to continue my forward lean."

With over 40 years of experience as a community leader, politician, minister and advocate, the Rev. Al Sharpton is one of America’s most-renowned civil rights leaders. Sharpton’s highly visible career began at the tender age of four when he preached his first sermon. A successful civil rights career soon followed, helping Sharpton hold such notable positions as the Youth Director of New York’s Operation Breadbasket, Director of Ministers for National Rainbow Push coalition, and founder of his own broad-based progressive civil rights organization, the National Action Network (NAN), one of the leading civil rights organizations in the world. Since its inception in 1991, NAN has expanded to encompass chapters throughout the United States and maintain important regional offices in Washington, D.C.; Atlanta, GA; Detroit, MI; Chicago, IL; Dallas, TX; Las Vegas, NV; and Los Angeles, CA. Sharpton was a candidate for the Democratic nomination for President in 2004. Rev. Sharpton also hosts a nationally syndicated radio show that broadcasts in 40 markets, five days a week. He resides in New York and has two daughters, Dominique and Ashley.

“PoliticsNation” will air weeknights from 6:00-7:00PM ET on MSNBC. Matthew Saal is Executive Producer.

MSNBC Announces 9/11 Anniversary Coverage Plans

news@newsonnews.net (Newsdesk) — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 13:17:20 +0000

On Thursday, September 1st at 9:00 PM/ET, MSNBC will debut 'Day of Destruction - Decade of War.'

The documentary draws from the unparalleled field experience of NBC News’ Chief Foreign Correspondent Richard Engel and the distinct analysis and insight of MSNBC’s Rachel Maddow to take a broad look at the decade since September 11, 2001. The report explores how America responded to the attacks and how the country has changed. “Day of Destruction: Decade of War” will re-air in its entirety on September 9th, 10th and 11th. Produced by Peacock Productions.

Premiering on Saturday, September 10th at 3:00 PM/ET and re-airing on Sunday, September 11th at 9:00 PM/ET, MSNBC presents the riveting story of the 9/11 Commission hearings with “On Native Soil.”

"On Native Soil" captures the content of the 9/11 Commission's report while exposing new details, including interviews with witnesses who testified for the Commission behind closed doors. It is the story of a loose collection of ordinary Americans - united by their single-minded passion for answers - who challenged a bureaucracy and triumphed. “On Native Soil” is narrated by Kevin Costner and Hilary Swank.

On Sunday, September 11th from 8:00–11:00 AM/ET, MSNBC will simulcast the NBC special.

Later that evening on Sunday, September 11 at 8:00 PM/ET, “9/11: In Our Own Words” will air on MSNBC. In this unique documentary, NBC News anchors and correspondents recall their personal memories of reporting live the morning of September 11, 2001. Weaving together the live footage of that morning with present-day interviews, the special covers the first several hours of reporting as the terrorist attacks on America unfolded.

From Matt Lauer and Tom Brokaw in the NBC News studios in New York, to David Gregory with President Bush, Jim Miklaszewski at the Pentagon and Andrea Mitchell at the Washington Bureau – the NBC News team relives the developments and emotions of that fateful day. “9/11: In Our Own Words ” is an MSNBC original production and was produced for MSNBC by Peacock Productions.

WK Kellogg Foundation Partners with MSNBC on 'Making the Grade' Education Special in Detroit

news@newsonnews.net (Newsdesk) — Thu, 11 Aug 2011 13:06:54 +0000

The W.K. Kellogg Foundation has announced that it will partner with MSNBC on its second annual "A Stronger America: Making the Grade" education special.

MSNBC will broadcast the live two-hour event with a focus on strengthening America through education from the Detroit School of Arts on Sunday, August 14.

"Detroit and Michigan have taken more than their fair share of licks in the media over the past decade," said Sterling Speirn, president and CEO of the W.K. Kellogg Foundation. "But MSNBC's Making the Grade special has exhibited a deeper understanding of the challenges communities like ours confront. There's no simple silver-bullet solution to poor schools, generations of poverty, and institutionalized racism. That means we have to work harder to solve such entrenched problems. And by raising awareness of the issues, and shining a light on members of the community who are making a difference, MSNBC is doing its part."

"Making the Grade" will feature daily segments during the week of August 8-14. Through profiles of success and struggles on topics ranging from school readiness and early learning to high school graduation and meaningful employment, "Making the Grade" has the power to shift national perceptions about education. This initiative aligns with the foundation's focus on early learning and underserved youth and "Making the Grade" represents an unprecedented opportunity for the foundation to build national support for vulnerable children and families.

Hosted by MSNBC Anchor Tamron Hall and co-hosted by MSNBC Contributor Jeff Johnson, the special will ask tough questions about the country's education system and will spotlight community-based solutions that are helping to address the inequities that pervade it. The town hall will also bring together leaders in the education community to discuss what's needed to put children on a path to success -- including involving parents and communities, supporting high quality early childhood development and education, fostering racial equity in our nation's schools and other essential topics.

In late September, the foundation will also participate in Education Nation, NBC's signature leadership summit and news broadcast initiative. "Making the Grade" comes as a precursor to MSNBC's participation in Education Nation, a week-long event beginning September 25 across all NBC News platforms.

MSNBC Flagship Shows Head for Des Moines Ahead of Straw Poll

news@newsonnews.net (Newsdesk) — Wed, 10 Aug 2011 21:48:30 +0000

MSNBC’s “The Daily Rundown” will have special live coverage of the Ames Straw Poll in Iowa on Thursday, Friday and Saturday of this week, hosted by NBC News Chief White House Correspondent and Political Director Chuck Todd.

“The Daily Rundown” will broadcast live from Java Joe’s in Des Moines, Iowa, on Thursday, August 11 and Friday, August 12, at 9 a.m. ET.

Guests on the Thursday show will include Iowa Governor Terry Branstad (R) and GOP Chairman Matt Strawn. On Friday, guests will include Sen. Charles Grassley (R-Iowa) among others.

MSNBC’s “Andrea Mitchell Reports” will broadcast live from Java Joe’s on Friday, August 12 at 1 p.m. ET.

Guests of the show include Iowa pollster Ann Selzer, DNC Chairwoman Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-Fla.), Christie Vilsack, U.S. Congressional Candidate, MSNBC Political Analyst Charlie Cook, Politico’s Mike Allen, Time’s Mark Halperin, MSNBC Contributor Chris Cillizza and NBC News’ and MSNBC’s Chuck Todd.

On Saturday, August 13, MSNBC will significantly expand its dayside live news coverage to monitor the Ames Straw Poll, extending MSNBC Live until 6 p.m. ET.

MSNBC Anchor Alex Witt will host MSNBC Live from 7 a.m. ET until 1 p.m. ET, when Chris Jansing will pick up coverage until 4 p.m. ET. Andrea Mitchell will host a special edition of “Andrea Mitchell Reports” from 4-6 p.m. ET. Chuck Todd will then report and analyze the results of the straw poll on a special Primetime edition of “The Daily Rundown” from 6-8 p.m. ET.

MSNBC Continues to Outperform CNN In Primetime During July

news@newsonnews.net (Kevin Coy) — Tue, 02 Aug 2011 19:12:11 +0000

MSNBC continued to beat CNN in primetime among total viewers and demo for the month of July 2011, according to data from Nielsen Media Research.

MSNBC topped CNN by 20% among A25-54 and by 31% among total viewers. This is the 4th consecutive monthly win over CNN in Weekday Prime. CNN ranked #4 for the second month in a row, behind sister network HLN. MSNBC also beat CNN in the morning, with "Morning Joe" ranking #2 among total viewers for the 4th consecutive month.

Following are MSNBC ratings highlights for July:

"Morning Joe" beat CNN’s "American Morning" in all key demos, including total viewers (461,000 vs. 249,000 CNN) and A25-54 (161,000 vs. 97,000). "Morning Joe" ranked #2 among total viewers for the 4th consecutive month, beating "American Morning" for the 4th straight month and HLN's "Morning Express with Robin Meade" for the 19th consecutive month. Compared to July 2010, "Morning Joe" is up in all key demos, including 42% growth in A25-54, 20% growth among total viewers, and 100% growth among the younger demo of A18-34.

"Hardball with Chris Matthews" beat CNN at both 5 p.m. and 7 p.m among total viewer and A25-54. At 5 p.m., "Hardball" topped CNN's "The Situation Room" by 15% in total viewers (733,000 vs. 639,000) and 22% among A25-54 (185,000 vs. 152,000). Compared to July 2010, "Hardball" at 5 p.m. was up double digits across the board in all key ratings categories, including 54% among A25-54, while Fox News Channel at 5 p.m. was down double digits in all key ratings categories.

At 7 p.m., "Hardball" topped CNN's "John King USA" by 45% in total viewers (723,000 vs. 500,000) and 22% among A25-54 (190,000 vs. 156,000). Compared to July 2010, "Hardball" at 7 p.m. is up 24% in total viewers and 12% among A25-54.

At 8 p.m., MSNBC topped CNN for the 41st consecutive month among total viewers. "The Last Word with Lawrence O’Donnell" beat CNN by 41% in A25-54 (214,000 vs. 152,000) and 63% among total viewers (870,000 vs. 535,000).

"The Rachel Maddow Show" beat CNN's "Piers Morgan Tonight" for the month of July by 44% among total viewers (974,000 vs. 678,000) and in A25-54 (292,000 vs. 202,000), marking the 18th consecutive monthly win over CNN in total viewers. Compared to July 2010, Maddow is up 24% in A25-54 and 9% among total viewers.

"The Ed Show" at 10 p.m. topped "Anderson Cooper" on CNN by 15% in total viewers (872,000 vs. 760,000). Compared to MSNBC at 10 p.m. in July 2010, "The Ed Show" is up 50% in total viewers and 42% in A25-54.

MSNBC is No. 1 among African American viewers in M-Su Primetime. May marks the 18th consecutive month MSNBC has been the #1 network among African Americans in primetime.

In weekend sales prime (Saturday and Sunday 7p-2a), MSNBC’s longform programming ranked No. 1, beating CNN and Fox News Channel among A25-54 for the 2nd straight month. Among younger viewers A18-34, MSNBC ranked No. 1 for the 33rd straight month.

MSNBC to Air 'Making the Grade' Discussion for Second Year as Part of Stregnthening America Initiative

news@newsonnews.net (Newsdesk) — Mon, 01 Aug 2011 21:21:54 +0000

MSNBC will air “A Stronger America: Making the Grade,” a live two-hour discussion on strengthening America through education, from the Detroit School of Arts, on Sunday, August 14 from noon until 2pm ET.

The special, hosted by MSNBC Anchor Tamron Hall and co-hosted by MSNBC Contributor and TheGrio.com Correspondent Jeff Johnson, will bring together a roundtable of prominent figures to discuss parenting and early education, how to help our students compete on a global scale, the effects of the economy on education and opportunity, and other essential topics.

"All barriers to improving our nation, whether they be economic, geographic or otherwise, must be eliminated,” said Yvette Miley, Vice President and Executive Editor, MSNBC. “We must find ways to give all of our students, no matter their backgrounds, the same opportunities to have a quality education. MSNBC believes in providing the platform for these important discussions, which ultimately lead to solutions that help build a stronger America."

The W. K. Kellogg Foundation, an organization that strengthens communities in order to provide vulnerable children and families with better opportunities, is a sponsor of "Making the Grade.”

“MSNBC’s ‘Making the Grade’ special has exhibited a deeper understanding of the challenges communities like ours confront,” said Sterling Speirn, President and CEO of the W.K. Kellogg Foundation. “There’s no simple silver-bullet solution to poor schools, generations of poverty, and ongoing struggles with racial inequalities. That means we have to work harder to solve such entrenched problems. And by raising awareness of the issues, and shining a light on members of the community who are making a difference, MSNBC is doing its part.”

In advance of the two-hour special on August 14, MSNBC will air 3-4 education-related segments each day across its various platforms. These segments will be available to view on MSNBC’s partner sites, TheGrio.com and iVillage.com. Kelly Wallace, iVillage Chief Correspondent, will appear on MSNBC prior to the special to discuss hot-button education issues culled from the iVillage community of millions of women and parents. In addition to the live show, theGrio.com Correspondent Jeff Johnson will present taped reports highlighting the ways that teachers and Americans citizens are stepping up to help prepare America’s youth for success beyond the classroom.

MSNBC’s “A Stronger America: Making the Grade” special comes to Detroit with the cooperation of Detroit Public Schools, a district undergoing historic change to transform a system that leaders say have been failing too many of its students. The district has implemented a five-year academic plan, where students are seeing a more rigorous academic curriculum in every school, and has expanded its process to authorize additional high-performing charter schools, including five that will be open this fall.

'Making the Grade' will be on location in Detroit inside the Detroit School of the Arts, a high-performing school where students have access to top visual arts, music, dance, drama and other programs in a comprehensive college-prep setting located on the grounds of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra. The town hall special will include an audience of nearly 800 students and teachers from across the Detroit area.

Viewers will be able to participate in live chats on MSNBC’s Stronger America Facebook page (http://www.facebook.com/StrongerAmerica), and will be able to participate in the show through the use of the #MakingTheGrade Twitter hashtag on the day of air. Clips and additional information on the show is available at StrongerAmerica.MSNBC.com.

Chris Hayes to Host Own Saturday Morning Politics Show on MSNBC

news@newsonnews.net (Newsdesk) — Mon, 01 Aug 2011 21:16:53 +0000

MSNBC contributor Chris Hayes has been added to the network’s weekend lineup as the host of a new weekend morning show.

The program, with a focus on politics, will be live on Saturdays from 7:00 – 9:00 a.m. ET and Sundays from 8:00 – 10:00 a.m. ET starting September 17. The announcement was made today by MSNBC President Phil Griffin. Hayes, a frequent substitute host for “The Rachel Maddow Show” and “The Last Word with Lawrence O’Donnell,” will continue as an MSNBC contributor and will remain part of The Nation as Editor-at-Large.

“Chris is a thoughtful analyst and one of the smartest journalists out there,” said Griffin. “As we head into election season, there is no better time to amp up our weekend political coverage.”

“I'm tremendously excited to create something new at MSNBC,” said Hayes. “I think our position on weekend mornings is going to allow us to slow down the news cycle and look at the week's news with a fresh perspective."

“Weekends with Alex Witt,” anchored by Alex Witt, will follow Chris Hayes on Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. – Noon ET and Sundays from 10:00 a.m. to Noon ET. Witt joined MSNBC in 1999 and currently anchors MSNBC Weekends.

"Alex Witt has been a standout and critical to our overall success," said Griffin. "I'm thrilled that she's going to continue in a key role on the weekends as we head into the 2012 election season."

Hayes had been the Washington DC Editor of The Nation since October 2007 and joined MSNBC as a contributor in April 2010. He is a former fellow at Harvard University’s Edmond J Safra Foundation Center for Ethics. From 2008-2010, he was a Bernard Schwartz fellow at the New America Foundation. From 2005 to 2006, Hayes was a Schumann Center Writing Fellow at In These Times.

Since 2002, Hayes has written on issues including union organizing and economic democracy, the culture of right-wing email forwards, the worldview of the anti-globalist right, and the culture of technology. His essays, articles and reviews have appeared in The New York Times Magazine, Time, The Nation, The American Prospect, The New Republic, The Washington Monthly, The Guardian, and The Chicago Reader.

He is currently working on a book about the crisis of authority in American life, which will be published by Crown in the spring of 2012. Hayes grew up in the Bronx, graduated from Brown University in 2001 with a BA in Philosophy and is married to Kate Shaw.

Craig Melvin Joins MSNBC as Dayside Anchor

news@newsonnews.net (Newsdesk) — Wed, 27 Jul 2011 15:25:39 +0000

Craig Melvin will join MSNBC as a dayside anchor, effective immediately.

Melvin comes to MSNBC from WRC, NBC’s owned and operated station in Washington, DC, where he anchored the station’s weekend editions of News4 and 6 and News4 at 11.

In his new role at MSNBC, Melvin will contribute to various hours of MSNBC’s live news coverage. In addition, Melvin joins NBC News as a Correspondent, where he will report across all NBC News platforms.

"We are thrilled to welcome Craig to MSNBC's dayside team," said MSNBC President Phil Griffin. "He’s smart, loves the business and will be a great addition to the team."

Prior to joining WRC, Melvin worked as a photographer and producer at WIS in Columbia, South Carolina. In only a few short years, Melvin became the station’s evening news anchor, earning an Emmy Award as well as "Best Anchor" from the South Carolina Broadcaster’s Association.

Prior to that, Melvin served as an Our Generation reporter at WRC, while he was still attending high school. During his time there, Melvin received a prestigious Associated Press award for his reporting on innovative teaching.

Joy-Ann Reid Joins MSNBC as Contributor and Managing Editor of thegrio.com

news@newsonnews.net (Newsdesk) — Thu, 21 Jul 2011 21:25:53 +0000

Joy-Ann Reid is joining NBC News as Managing Editor of theGrio.com and MSNBC Contributor, effective immediately.

Reid takes over the Managing Editor role from David Wilson, who will move into a new position as Executive Editor of theGrio.com— overseeing the business operations and growth strategy of the African-American news website.

“David’s transition to Executive Editor represents a huge milestone for the theGrio. Since founding the site in June 2009, David has built the organization and grown theGrio.com to be the leading place for news and information for the African-American community,” said Michael Chen, President of the Strategic Initiatives Group at NBC News. “We look forward to David and Joy-Ann taking theGrio.com to new heights in the months to come.”

Reporting to Wilson, Reid will oversee the editorial operations of theGrio. Her responsibilities include leading editorial coverage and strategy for the site, as well as managing all of theGrio’s correspondents and contributors. Reid will also contribute on-air for MSNBC.

“We’re thrilled to bring Joy-Ann on board as Managing Editor, and look forward to tapping into her deep journalism expertise,” said David Wilson. “With Joy-Ann leading the editorial strategy for the site, we are able to devote more time and resources to advancing the business strategy of our growing franchise.”

Reid joins theGrio.com with experience as a freelance columnist for the Miami Herald and as editor of the political blog The Reid Report. She is a former talk radio producer and host for Radio One, and previously served as an online news editor for the NBC affiliate WTVJ in Miramar, FL.

During the 2004 presidential campaign, Reid served as the Florida deputy communications director for the 527 “America Coming Together” initiative, and was a press aide in the final stretch of President Barack Obama’s Florida campaign in 2008. Joy’s columns and articles have appeared in the Miami Herald, the South Florida Sun-Sentinel, South Florida Times and Salon.com. She is currently producing a documentary, “The Fight Years”—which takes a look into the sport of boxing during the 1950s and 1960s in Miami.

Reid graduated from Harvard University in 1991 with a concentration in film, and is a 2003 Knight Center for Specialized Journalism fellow. She currently resides in Miami and plans to relocate to New York City this summer.

MSNBC Indefinitely Suspends Mark Halperin Following Obama Comment

news@newsonnews.net (Kevin Coy) — Sun, 03 Jul 2011 14:48:55 +0000

MSNBC has indefinitely suspended analyst Mark Halperin after in a comment, he called the President Obama a 'dick'.

MSNBC said in a statement;

"Mark Halperin's comments this morning were completely inappropriate and unacceptable.

"We apologize to the President, The White House and all of our viewers. We strive for a high level of discourse and comments like these have no place on our air.

"Therefore, Mark will be suspended indefinitely from his role as an analyst."

Mark Halperin also released a statement;

"I completely agree with everything in MSNBC’s statement about my remark. I believe that the step they are taking in response is totally appropriate.

"Again, I want to offer a heartfelt and profound apology to the President, to my MSNBC colleagues, and to the viewers. My remark was unacceptable, and I deeply regret it."

MSNBC Continues to Beat CNN in Primetime for First Half of 2011

news@newsonnews.net (Newsdesk) — Sun, 03 Jul 2011 13:55:04 +0000

In a year dominated by major international stories, MSNBC beat CNN in primetime in the first half of 2011, as well as the 2^nd quarter of 2011, finishing well ahead of the formerly dominant news network for the 7^th consecutive quarter.

MSNBC continues to top CNN in the mornings as well, with “Morning Joe” beating “American Morning” for the first half of the year and for the sixth consecutive quarter. MSNBC topped CNN at 7, 8, 9 and 10 p.m. for the first half of the year and in 2Q11. Following are ratings highlights for the first half of 2011 and 2Q 2011:

MSNBC beat CNN in primetime (Monday- Friday) for the first half of 2011 by 23% (945,000 vs. 768,000) in total viewers and 6% in A25-54 (270,000 vs. 254,000). For 2Q 2011, MSNBC topped CNN by 26% in total viewers (912,000 vs. 722,000) and 17% in A25-54 (273,000 vs. 234,000). This was the 7^th consecutive quarterly victory over CNN for MSNBC. Compared to 2Q10, MSNBC in primetime has grown 13% in A25-54 and 3% among total viewers.
MSNBC continues to be #1 among African American and Hispanic viewers. This marks the 6^th consecutive quarterly win among African American viewers and the 5^th consecutive quarterly win among Hispanic viewers.
For the first half of the year, “Morning Joe” surpassed CNN’s “American Morning” (466,000 vs. 323,000) and HLN’s Robin Meade (466,000 vs. 322,000) among total viewers. Compared to the first half of 2010, “Morning Joe” is up 23% in total viewers and 31% in A25-54 for the first half of 2011. For 2Q 2011, “Morning Joe” topped third place CNN for the 6^th consecutive quarter (485,000 vs. 324,000) and HLN for the 14^th consecutive quarter (485,000 vs. 329,000) among total viewers. 2Q11 marks the best total viewer delivery for “Morning Joe” since 4Q08. “Morning Joe” also continued to top CNN in A25-54 for both the first half of the year and 2Q 2011
“Hardball with Chris Matthews” finished the first half of 2011 well ahead of CNN at 7 p.m, by 26% in total viewers (717,000 vs. 571,000). Hardball also topped CNN for the quarter in both total viewers (700,000 vs. 540,000) and A25-54 (190,000 vs. 188,000). This is the 7^th consecutive quarter MSNBC has topped CNN at 7 p.m. Compared to 2Q10, “Hardball” is up 7% in total viewers and 10% among A25-54.
At 8 p.m., “The Last Word with Lawrence O’Donnell,” MSNBC continued to dominate CNN for the first half of 2011, topping CNN’s “In the Arena” by 64% in total viewers (974,000 vs. 595,000) and 34% among A25-54 (248,000 vs. 185,000). O’Donnell also continued to beat CNN for the quarter in total viewers (941,000 vs. 544,000) and A25-54 (251,000 vs. 168,000). This marks the 13^th consecutive quarter ranking #2 at 8 p.m. in total viewers and the 19^th consecutive quarter topping CNN among A25-54.
“The Rachel Maddow Show” wrapped up the first half of 2011 well ahead of CNN at 9 p.m., topping “Piers Morgan Tonight” by 37% in total viewers (1,046,000 vs. 762,000) and 29% among adults 25-54 (305,000 vs. 236,000). Compared to the first half of 2010, TRMS is up 9% among total viewers and 23% among A25-54 for the first half of 2011. For 2Q 2011, Maddow beat Piers by and even wider margin in total viewers (1,026,000 vs. 670,000) and A25-54 (315,000 vs. 201,000). TRMS delivered the strongest A25-54 and total viewer audiences for the hour since 1Q09. “Piers Morgan Tonight” is down across the board in 2Q 2011 compared to its debut quarter in 1Q 2011– including a 33% drop among A25-54 and a 28% decrease in total viewers.
At 10 p.m. “The Ed Show” with Ed Schultz beat CNN’s “AC 360” for the first half of 2011 (879,000 vs. 850,000). MSNBC also topped CNN in the time period for the 4^th consecutive quarter (877,000 vs. 841,000). Compared to 2Q10, “The Ed Show” has grown 31% in total viewers and 27% among A25-54 in 2Q11.
MSNBC Longform ranks #1 in Weekend Primetime (Saturday – Sunday 7 p.m. – 2 a.m.) among adults 25-54 for the 5^th consecutive quarter and beat CNN for the 11^th straight quarter

MSNBC's 'The Ed Show' Head to New Orleans for Katrina Sixth Anniversary

news@newsonnews.net (Newsdesk) — Thu, 30 Jun 2011 10:04:25 +0000

In conjunction with the sixth anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, MSNBC’s "The Ed Show" will join forces with the National Association of Free Clinics (NAFC) to bring free health care and treatment to New Orleans on Monday, August 29, 2011.

To bring awareness and care to those in critical need, MSNBC's Ed Schultz is asking viewers to make a donation to the NAFC in order to set up the free health care clinic in New Orleans.

In addition to the damage inflicted to homes, the hurricane has had a significant impact on the city’s healthcare community. Four hospitals were forced to close after the storm and many residents still remain uninsured. A story from the May 31, 2011 issue of the Times-Picayune newspaper reports that the entire east side of New Orleans has been without a hospital since Hurricane Katrina in August 2005.

“Though Hurricane Katrina occurred six years ago, New Orleans is still in desperate need of resources and help. We urge everyone to get involved and donate to help the many hard-working Americans that still do not have access to affordable health care,” said Nicole Lamoureux, NAFC Executive Director.

All participants in the NAFC clinic will receive preventive primary medical care and will be connected to the area’s safety net providers. More than 10,000 uninsured people have received medical care at similar free clinics sponsored by the NAFC.

This will be the fifth free health clinic "The Ed Show" has broadcast from. In the past few years alone, MSNBC has raised over $3 million dollars in viewer donations to help this cause.

MSNBC’s "The Ed Show" telecasts weeknights at 10PM EST.

MSNBC Launches Online Report on Japan Quake and Tsunami Aftermath

news@newsonnews.net (Newsdesk) — Wed, 08 Jun 2011 18:36:48 +0000

Msnbc.com has launched Japan: After the Wave, a multimedia report documenting the early stages of recovery on the nation’s northeast coast following March 11 earthquake and tsunami.

The 9.0 magnitude earthquake and devastating tsunami that struck Japan’s northeast coast earlier this spring left 15,000 dead, 8,500 missing and over 100,000 without a home. Now, nearly three months later, Japanese citizens have begun the long struggle to rebuild.

In Japan: After the Wave, msnbc.com reporter Miranda Leitsinger and multimedia producer Jim Seida are providing on-site coverage of relief efforts that are helping Japanese citizens return to normalcy. Focusing on small but meaningful steps that highlight a spirit of perseverance and a determination to rebuild, Leitsinger and Seida also are exploring how the Japanese survivors are faring and what they are doing to aid the recovery process. The special report highlights a father-son duo that has revived the family’s electrical construction business, a woman who runs a nonprofit for disabled children and members of a children’s jazz ensemble.

Reporting initially from Kesennuma and Minamisanriku, two coastal cities that were dealt distinctive blows by this two-part natural disaster, Leitsinger and Seida are presenting first-hand accounts of Japanese citizens that shed light on the unique difficulties they have faced in its wake. The reporting showcases salient themes of struggle and survival in the aftermath of a natural disaster, commonalities that connect Japan and the United States in light of the recent devastating tornadoes in the Midwest.

Comprehensive on-the-ground coverage from Japan is reported through three digital platforms: Facebook, Storify and the World Blog on msnbc.com. The report’s Facebook page -- http://www.facebook.com/worldblog-- invites users to share Leitsinger and Seida’s experience as it unfolds by providing timely updates on who they are speaking to and what they are seeing. Through Storify – http://afterthewave.msnbc.com– consumers can follow the project in a narrative that weaves together the team’s reporting, on-site dispatches with readers’ comments and selected archival material.

Following each day of on-site coverage, full reports that include both text and multimedia are also available on the World Blog at msnbc.com -- http://worldblog.msnbc.com/. By utilizing the navigation links on the series logo, readers can easily sample each experience and consume it in their preferred format.

To learn more about Japan: After the Wave, visit http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/after-the-wave.

MSNBC to Air 'Erasing Hate' - The True Story of a Skinhead's Redemption

news@newsonnews.net (Newsdesk) — Tue, 07 Jun 2011 19:10:43 +0000

MSNBC will premiere its latest documentary, "Erasing Hate," an unforgettable true story of transformation and redemption hosted by Lawrence O’Donnell, on Sunday, June 26 at 9 PM ET.

"Erasing Hate" chronicles Bryon Widner’s 16 years in a major skinhead organization, where he was known as a heavy drinker and a ‘pit bull’ – the enforcer who would turn extremely violent at the drop of a hat. While most skinheads are known for brandishing tattoos, Bryon’s head-to-toe ink made his appearance especially menacing.

After years of extreme violence against minorities in the name of the white race, Bryon’s life changed forever when he became a husband and father in 2006. He and his wife Julie shared a common bond – both were becoming disenchanted with what they saw as hypocrisy in the skinhead culture. They knew that they couldn’t raise their family within the white power movement, but getting out wasn’t easy. As Bryon puts it, "that’s the skinhead philosophy; the retirement program is either prison or the grave." Amidst endless harassment and death threats toward themselves and their family, Bryon and Julie fled from Michigan to Tennessee in search of a new life.

But the Widners quickly learned that moving on isn’t just about location. Bryon’s racist tattoos were a constant reminder of his haunting, violent past, and he found it nearly impossible to support his family. With financial aid from the Southern Poverty Law Center in 2009, Widner made the life-changing decision to embark on an extensive and excruciating 20-month laser removal process at the Vanderbilt University Medical Center. "Erasing Hate" producers spent nearly two years chronicling Bryon’s incredibly painful tattoo removal treatment—a penance of sorts for the hurt he had caused to so many others in his past.

MSNBC’s Lawrence O’Donnell hosts "Erasing Hate," Sunday, June 26, 9 PM ET.

"Erasing Hate" is produced, written and directed by Bill Brummel, Bill Brummel Productions. Dan Wolfmeyer is Editor, and Kevin O’Brien and John Rhode are Directors of Photography. Michael Rubin is Vice President, Long Form Programming, MSNBC. Scott Hooker is Senior Executive Producer, Documentary Production and Development, MSNBC. Vicki Sufian is Senior Producer, Long Form Programming, MSNBC.

MSNBC's award-winning documentary unit combines compelling storytelling with exclusive access to some of the most intriguing and rarely seen places and people in the world, allowing viewers to become eyewitnesses. Building on the world-class newsgathering and talent of　MSNBC and NBC News, the　MSNBC documentary unit takes audiences undercover to investigate in-depth some of the most important stories of our time. Drawing on partnerships with accomplished producers and acclaimed filmmakers, MSNBC　presents powerful documentaries and also showcases unique features under the　MSNBC Films umbrella.

Morning Joe to air 'Women in the Workplace' Special Thursday

news@newsonnews.net (Newsdesk) — Wed, 25 May 2011 17:00:09 +0000

Mika Brzezinski, Joe Scarborough, and Willie Geist will take an in-depth look at the value of women in the workplace with a special edition of MSNBC’s “Morning Joe” on Thursday, May 26 from 6:00-9:00 a.m.

The program is inspired by Brzezinski’s “New York Times” bestselling book “Knowing Your Value,” which explores the unconventional route Brzezinski took to get her worth. In “Knowing Your Value,” Brzezinski interviewed prominent men and women from all lines of work and discovered that she was not alone with the career and money mistakes she had made along the way. The special “Morning Joe” will continue the conversations about gender inequalities in the workplace and discuss practical tactics for negotiating from a place of power and communicating your value to get deserved compensation.

Guests for “Knowing Your Value: Women in the Workplace” on “Morning Joe” will include Chairman of the FDIC Shelia Bair, New York City Mayor Mike Bloomberg, Editor-in-Chief of “The Daily Beast” and “Newsweek” Tina Brown, EVP of Original Programming and Development at Bravo Media Andy Cohen, Chairman of Deutsch Inc. Donny Deutsch, Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Grammy award-winning singer and songwriter Carole King, Sen. Claire McCaskill (D-MI), MSNBC’s Norah O’Donnell, “60 Minutes” correspondent Lesley Stahl, U.S. Managing Editor of the “Financial Times” Gillian Tett, and Editor-in-Chief of “Cosmopolitan” Kate White.

Alex Korson is the executive producer and Ann Edelberg is senior supervising producer of “Morning Joe” (weekdays 6:00-9:00 a.m. on MSNBC).

Former RNC Chairman Michael Steel Joins MSNBC as Political Analyst

news@newsonnews.net (Newsdesk) — Mon, 23 May 2011 14:34:53 +0000

Former Republican National Committee (RNC) chairman Michael Steele has been named MSNBC political analyst.

The announcement was made today by Phil Griffin, President of MSNBC, and is effective immediately.

Steele, who has been a frequent guest on MSNBC, will now regularly appear on the full lineup of MSNBC programming as part of the network's diverse group of analysts and contributors.

“I’m thrilled to have Michael join MSNBC,” said Phil Griffin, President of MSNBC. “His strong voice and opinions will be a great addition to all of our programs.”

“It’s an honor to contribute and engage in the dialogue on MSNBC,” said Steele. “I look forward to engaging a diverse audience to share insights and analysis about the people, issues, and events shaping America’s future. I’m sure our discussions will be both informative and a bit spirited!”

Michael Steele is President and CEO of The Steele Group, a company he started in 1999. The Steele Group works with institutional and individual clients to design overall business development, investor, networking, and communications strategies. He was the first African-American chairman of the Republican National Committee. Steele left the RNC post earlier this year after setting a new direction for the Republican Party that led to record-setting fundraising totals and winning more seats at the federal, state, and local level since 1928. Prior to that, Steele was elected Lieutenant Governor of Maryland, becoming the first African American elected in that state.