The terrible ratings for Meet The Press have finally sunk David Gregory. It is being reported that Gregory will soon be dumped and Chuck Todd will be named the new moderator of the Sunday morning institution.
Politico reported, “Chuck Todd, a political obsessive and rabid sports fan, is the likely successor to David Gregory as moderator of “Meet the Press,” with the change expected to be announced in coming weeks, according to top political sources. The move is an effort by NBC News President Deborah Turness to restore passion and insider cred to a network treasure that has been adrift since the death in 2008 of the irreplaceable Tim Russert. Although Todd is not a classic television performer guaranteed to wow focus groups, his NBC bosses have been impressed by his love of the game, which brings with it authenticity, sources, and a loyal following among newsmakers and political junkies.”
The report did add a note of caution that nothing is definite or decided, but it is apparent views the struggles of Meet The Press as a host problem. It is also being reported that Gregory will be out at NBC, and be looking for new work elsewhere. It has been widely reported that the change at Meet The Press will happen after the November midterm elections.
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Unlike Gregory, Chuck Todd is a political media professional. This alone should help with a bit of the bland factor that has consumed Meet The Press. A little political passion could change the mood, but swapping Todd for Gregory is probably not going to be the game-changing move that NBC is hoping for.
Chuck Todd is a fountain of D.C. conventional political wisdom. The same drumbeat of Republican guests, D.C. reporters and insiders spouting the usual Republican leaning talking points is certain to continue under Todd. You can believe that there will be no shakeup to the guest list on Meet The Press. Chuck Todd will be a better interviewer than David Gregory, but my left sock could do more inspired interview than Gregory.
David Gregory has always wanted to host the Today show. He was never a good fit for the political animal that is Meet The Press. Chuck Todd has a personality that can rub viewers the wrong way and the phrase dynamic television presence will never be used to describe him. The best thing that can be said for Chuck Todd is that he isn’t Joe Scarborough.
At least Todd is interested in politics, but overall, if it happens this will be at best a lateral move Meet The Press. Chuck Todd isn’t the dynamic change that was needed, and it is unlikely that he will be able to bail out the teetering NBC legend.
Jason is the managing editor. He is also a White House Press Pool and a Congressional correspondent for PoliticusUSA. Jason has a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science. His graduate work focused on public policy, with a specialization in social reform movements.
Awards and Professional Memberships
Member of the Society of Professional Journalists and The American Political Science Association
