A memo obtained by Business Insider reveals that NBC News has decided to drop former Republican National Committee chair Ronna McDaniel as a paid contributor. The decision was influenced by public criticism of the hiring from top talent within the network. In an effort to present diverse viewpoints and experiences to the audience, NBC initially hired McDaniel, but now the network will redouble its efforts to seek voices representing different parts of the political spectrum.
McDaniel, who has been preparing for her impending departure, may engage in a legal battle with NBC. Creative Artists Agency, the talent agency that helped broker the initial deal between McDaniel and NBC, has also dropped her. Prominent NBC News figures including Chuck Todd, Joe Scarborough, Mika Brzezinski, and Rachel Maddow publicly criticized McDaniel’s position.
The fallout from McDaniel’s hiring emphasizes the importance of ensuring a cohesive and aligned organization with diverse viewpoints represented. Politico reported that McDaniel’s position was set to pay her roughly $300,000 per year, which sparked internal backlash at NBC News following layoffs in January.
