MSNBC’s famed “big board” will be lighting up without its most recognizable face. Steve Kornacki, the network’s data-whiz and election-night staple, has officially signed a new deal with NBC, stepping away from his longtime post at MSNBC.
Under the terms of his expanded contract, Kornacki will take on a broader role as Chief Data Analyst across NBC’s news and sports divisions. However, the agreement notably does not include appearances on MSNBC, the liberal-leaning cable network where Kornacki rose to national prominence.
The move comes as MSNBC is spun off into a new corporate entity by parent company Comcast, formally separating it from NBC News. The reorganization includes MSNBC building out its own independent newsgathering operation—one Kornacki has opted not to join.
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The Los Angeles Times was the first to report details of Kornacki’s contract, which cements his future with NBC but leaves behind his signature appearances at MSNBC, particularly during high-stakes election nights.
Kornacki’s exit marks another major shakeup at MSNBC, following the February firing of primetime host Joy Reid, who had faced criticism for polarizing commentary and lagging ratings in her 7 p.m. slot. Reid has since been replaced by a trio of co-hosts: Michael Steele, Symone Sanders-Townsend, and Alicia Menendez.
Known for his infectious energy, deep knowledge of electoral history, and endless supply of khaki pants, Kornacki became a cult figure during the 2020 and 2024 election cycles, when he spent marathon hours at the touchscreen breaking down incoming vote counts and polling trends for candidates like Donald Trump, Joe Biden, and Kamala Harris.
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His analytical flair and storytelling ability earned him widespread acclaim—not just from political junkies, but also sports fans. Kornacki’s skill set translated well to NBC Sports, where he regularly appeared on NFL playoff broadcasts to explain team scenarios and odds.
Steve Kornacki began his career as a political writer, contributing to outlets such as Salon and Roll Call before earning a contributor role at CNN. He joined MSNBC in 2012 as a co-host on “The Cycle,” quickly becoming a fixture on the network for his sharp electoral insights.
By the mid-2010s, he had become synonymous with MSNBC’s election coverage, and by 2020, his around-the-clock data analysis turned him into an overnight sensation.
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Now, as MSNBC pivots to establish its own editorial identity apart from NBC News, Kornacki’s departure underscores the shifting media landscape—and the growing trend of talent aligning with platforms that offer broader, cross-divisional opportunities.
In his new role, Kornacki is expected to continue contributing to NBC’s flagship programs like Meet the Press, NBC Nightly News, and Sunday Night Football, blending political analysis with sports data in a way few can.
For MSNBC viewers, however, it’s a notable farewell to one of the network’s most trusted and dynamic voices—just ahead of the 2026 midterms.
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