Jen Psaki Joins MSNBC

Jen Psaki, the former White House press secretary, will host her own show on NBC’s Peacock streaming platform next year and she’ll also participate in NBC News and MSNBC coverage of this year’s midterm elections and the 2024 presidential race, the network announced on Tuesday.

“Jen’s sharp wit and relatability combined with the mastery of the subjects she covers have made her a household name across the nation,” said MSNBC President Rashida Jones in a statement released by the network. “Her extensive experience in government and on the campaign trail and perspective as a White House and Washington insider is the type of analysis that sets MSNBC apart. She’s a familiar face and trusted authority to MSNBC viewers, and we look forward to her insight during this consequential election season.”

“Fact-based and thoughtful conversations about the big questions on the minds of people across the country have never been more important, and I’m thrilled to join the incredible MSNBC team,” Psaki said in a statement released by MSNBC. “My time in government, from the White House to the State Department, and years before that on national political campaigns will fuel the insight and perspective I bring to this next chapter. I can’t wait to create a space on streaming where we break down the facts, get to the bottom of what’s driving the issues and hopefully have some fun along the way.”

Psaki served as President Biden’s press secretary for the first 16 months of the Biden Administration, and previously served as White House Communications Director under President Obama. Psaki has also been a State Department spokesperson and worked on the Obama presidential campaign, and Sen. John Kerry’s unsuccessful run for the White House.

Psaki’s move to MSNBC was first reported by the Los Angeles Times earlier this month, leading some to question whether it was a conflict of interest for Psaki to have continued to take questions from reporters while negotiating a job at one of the news networks. “What I know is what I try to do every day, and I hold myself to a very high ethical standard,” Psaki told Fox News earlier this month. “I took steps, and have taken steps, as I’ve had any discussions with any future employer that go over and above any requirements by government — recusing myself from many discussions as well.”