Chuck Todd to leave as host of ‘Meet the Press’ on NBC.

NBC News’ Chuck Todd has announced that he is stepping down as the host of Sunday’s “Meet the Press” after nine years of service. Todd has been a prominent figure in American politics, frequently interviewing politicians about various issues. His tenure will end at the end of the summer, and he will continue to work for NBC News.

Welker to Replace Todd

Kristen Welker, who notably hosted the final 2020 debate between former President Donald Trump and then-Democratic nominee Joe Biden, will replace Todd. Welker confirmed the development on Twitter, writing that she is “humbled and grateful” to succeed him. “Todd has been a mentor and friend since my first day at NBC News,” Welker said. “I’ve learned so much from sitting with him at the anchor desk and simply experiencing his passion for politics. I’m humbled and grateful to take the baton and continue to build on the legacy of Meet the Press.”

Legacy of “Meet the Press”

“Meet the Press” is considered the longest-running show in U.S. television, having celebrated its 75th anniversary in 2022. Notably, it was hosted by veteran journalist Tim Russert between 1991 and 2008, when he passed away. Through his penetrating interviews with many of the most important newsmakers, the show has played an essential role in politics and policy, routinely made front-page news, and framed the thinking in Washington and beyond.

Media Shakeup

Todd’s departure comes amid a media shakeup, with critics saying that NBC and sister cable news station, MSNBC, both owned by Comcast, have shifted further to the political left, namely during the tenure of former President Donald Trump. On his program, Todd has been a frequent critic of the former president, and Trump has derisively referred to the anchor as “sleepy eyes.”

Parting Words

“It’s been an amazing nearly decade-long run,” Todd said. “I am really proud of what this team and I have built over the last decade. I’ve loved so much of this job, helping to explain America to Washington and explain Washington to America.” In his announcement, Todd did not say explicitly say why he would be leaving the program but he indicated that he’d rather leave sooner than later. “The key to the survival of any of these media entities, including here at Meet the Press, is for leaders to not overstay their welcome,” Todd said. “I’d rather leave a little bit too soon than stay a tad too long.”

Final Thoughts

Chuck Todd’s departure from “Meet the Press” marks the end of an era. As Kristen Welker takes over, we can only hope that she will continue to build on the legacy of the show and provide insightful interviews with the most important newsmakers of our time.