Catherine Rampell Joins MSNBC as Weekend Show Co-Host

NEW YORK (AP) — Catherine Rampell, a prominent opinion columnist for The Washington Post and a regular on CNN, is set to join MSNBC as a co-host of the evening edition of its “Weekend” roundtable program. The announcement was made on Tuesday, with Rampell expected to begin her new role in the spring of 2025.

In her new position, Rampell will co-host alongside Ayman Mohyeldin, with a third co-host yet to be announced. The updated lineup reflects a significant shift at MSNBC, as the network aims to enhance its evening programming. The current hosts of “Weekend,” Symone Sanders-Townsend, Michael Steele, and Alicia Menendez, are transitioning to a new 7 p.m. hour.

Rampell’s hiring comes as MSNBC’s President Rebecca Kutler implements a strategic overhaul of the network’s programming. Kutler, who has replaced Joy Reid in the 7 p.m. segment, is focused on establishing a distinct newsgathering framework for MSNBC, carving out a unique identity amidst a competitive media landscape. The network’s changes coincide with similar adaptations by rivals, including CNN, as they cope with a dip in viewership following the 2024 election.

Rampell, a Phi Beta Kappa graduate of Princeton University, brings a wealth of experience covering politics and economics. She has previously served as an economics and politics commentator for CNN and as a special correspondent for PBS NewsHour, where she dedicated her efforts to highlighting economic and business issues. Known for her data-driven reporting, she has engaged with prominent figures such as Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell and regional Federal Reserve presidents.

The revamped “Weekend” show will air on Saturdays and Sundays from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. ET. Concurrently, the morning segment will be hosted by Jonathan Capehart, Jackie Alemany, and Eugene Daniels.

Rampell’s addition to MSNBC is not only significant for the network but also reflects broader trends in news programming, where networks increasingly rely on collaborative formats rather than a singular focus on individual host personalities. These roundtable discussions are intended to foster diverse viewpoints and engage audiences seeking comprehensive coverage of current events.