In a significant shift within the broadcasting landscape, Steve Kornacki, the beloved data analyst known for his engaging election night coverage, is leaving MSNBC to join NBC News and NBC Sports full time. The announcement was confirmed by NBC News on April 1, 2025, marking a new chapter in Kornacki's career that will see him take on the title of chief data analyst across both divisions.
Kornacki's move comes as part of a broader corporate restructuring, with parent company Comcast preparing to spin off MSNBC and other cable networks into a new entity. This transition has prompted MSNBC to expand its newsgathering operation, with plans to hire over 100 journalists in anticipation of the split.
Having joined MSNBC in 2012, Kornacki quickly became a fixture of the network's political coverage, especially during election cycles when his "big board" became synonymous with election night analysis. Viewers fondly remember his marathon hours in front of the touchscreen electoral college map during the 2020 presidential election, where it took four days to call the race for Joe Biden. Kornacki's ability to break down complex data into digestible insights has endeared him to audiences, earning him a dedicated following.
Under his new role at NBC News, Kornacki will appear on major programs such as "Meet the Press," "Today," and "NBC Nightly News." His expertise will also extend to NBC Sports, where he will cover marquee events like NFL football, the Olympics, and the Kentucky Derby. Kornacki's analytical skills have previously been showcased during these events, where he has contributed insights on player statistics and race outcomes.
In a statement regarding his departure, Kornacki expressed excitement about the new opportunities ahead. He noted, "I’m thrilled to take on this new role at NBC, where I can continue to engage with viewers and provide in-depth analysis on both news and sports." His versatility is a key asset, as he will be able to explore opportunities outside NBC that do not conflict with his news and sports responsibilities.
As Kornacki embarks on this new journey, MSNBC is simultaneously adjusting to his absence. The network has begun the search for a new data analyst to fill the void left by Kornacki's departure. On April 1, MSNBC also announced the hiring of Antonia Hylton from NBC News, who will co-host "The Weekend: Primetime," further signaling the network's commitment to bolstering its reporting team.
Kornacki's rise to fame has not only been due to his analytical prowess but also his relatable personality and signature style—most notably, his khaki pants, which have become a cultural phenomenon. Reflecting on the unexpected attention his wardrobe received during the 2020 election, Kornacki remarked, "I truly did not get the frenzy over my choice of outfit. It's not like I had a lifelong attachment to these pants; they were just what I happened to be wearing that day." His humor and humility have resonated with fans, solidifying his status as a beloved figure in political journalism.
Throughout his career, Kornacki has also ventured into sports analysis, where he has found success as a horse racing expert and a contributor to NBC's "Football Night in America." His deep dives into statistical data have made him a valuable asset during major sporting events, and his contributions to the network's coverage of the Kentucky Derby have been particularly noteworthy.
The restructuring of MSNBC and NBC News comes at a time when the media landscape is rapidly evolving. With the anticipated spin-off of cable assets into a new company, dubbed "SpinCo," both networks are reassessing their strategies to remain competitive in an increasingly fragmented media environment. Kornacki's departure is seen as a pivotal moment in this transition, as he has been a central figure in MSNBC's political coverage.
As Kornacki prepares to transition to NBC, he leaves behind a legacy of insightful analysis and engaging storytelling that has captivated viewers across the nation. His ability to make complex data accessible has transformed the way audiences consume political news, and his contributions to NBC's sports coverage are expected to be equally impactful.
In conclusion, Steve Kornacki's move to NBC News and NBC Sports marks a significant development in both his career and the broader media landscape. With his expertise in data analysis and a knack for engaging storytelling, Kornacki is poised to continue making waves in his new role, while MSNBC navigates the challenges of its impending separation from NBC News.
