NBC News is facing criticism following its decision to enlist former Republican National Committee Chair Ronna McDaniel as a commentator for the 2024 elections, igniting a storm of dissent from within the network and beyond, The Hill reports.

Chuck Todd, former host of NBC's "Meet the Press," sharply rebuked the network for the hiring, while the hosts of MSNBC's popular "Morning Joe" program announced their refusal to feature ex-RNC chair McDaniel as a paid contributor.

Mika Brzezinski, one of the "Morning Joe" hosts, emphasized the importance of seeking conservative Republican voices for balance in election coverage but denounced McDaniel's appointment due to her history of undermining democratic processes.

Despite internal disapproval, NBC leadership reportedly unanimously supported McDaniel's hiring, reaffirming individual show's editorial control over guest bookings.

McDaniel's contract with NBC is reportedly valued at over six figures annually.

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Examining the Backlash

The decision to bring ex-RNC chair Ronna McDaniel on board sparked intense scrutiny, with many questioning NBC's commitment to journalistic integrity.

Critics pointed to McDaniel's past alignment with former President Donald Trump and her propagation of election misinformation as significant concerns, according to Politico.

The backlash against McDaniel's hiring underscores broader challenges faced by news organizations in navigating partisan divides. NBC News must contend with balancing diverse audience interests, from traditional NBC News viewers to MSNBC's audience, which leans left politically.

Chuck Todd's criticism of the network's decision further fueled the controversy, with some NBC journalists expressing discomfort working alongside McDaniel, given her adversarial stance towards the press during her tenure at the Republican National Committee.

TV networks and newspapers often hire political operatives. Bill Moyers, once a top aide to President Lyndon Johnson, joined CBS News, while William Safire, a Nixon speechwriter, wrote for the New York Times in 1973.

Safire's appointment drew criticism, including from former Times personnel like David Halberstam.

Internal Discord and External Criticism

Within NBC's headquarters, discussions among employees about further actions against McDaniel's hiring have emerged, reflecting internal discontent over the decision.

The Democratic National Committee chair weighed in, accusing NBC News of providing a platform for McDaniel to whitewash her involvement in what he termed a "shameful period" in American politics, per The New York Times.

McDaniel's past actions, including her amplification of baseless 2020 election fraud claims and her participation in efforts to contest election results, have drawn scrutiny and contributed to the controversy surrounding her appointment at NBC.

In response to the furor, McDaniel has opted not to comment publicly on the situation, maintaining a delicate balance amid mounting criticism.

NBC's decision to bring ex-RNC chair Ronna McDaniel on board as a commentator has sparked significant internal and external backlash, highlighting broader tensions within the news industry over the integration of partisan voices and the imperative of upholding journalistic principles in an increasingly polarized media landscape.

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Written by: Ross Key

WATCH: Backlash Over NBC News' Ronna McDaniel Hire - From The View