MSNBC moves to bring conservative pundits to network shows: report

Mark Lazarus, the head of SpinCo, has suggested in private conversations over the past month in his new role that he would like MSNBC to incorporate more Republican voices into its programming, people familiar with the matter told Status. SpinCo is the result of Comcast spinning off multiple channels into a separate company.

Lazarus has reportedly told people that he wants to change the public’s perception of MSNBC that Republicans are treated unfairly on the network. He has reportedly indicated that he doesn’t want content from hosts and commentators that may unnecessarily spawn bad press and alienate GOP viewers.

Lazarus, however, has indicated that he wants the progressive channel to retain its core identity and there is no indication that top talent on the network such as Rachel Maddow will be asked to change the makeup of programming. No formal editorial guidance has been given to MSNBC anchors or producers yet, as Lazarus is still holding meetings and familiarizing himself with key people at MSNBC. 

Lazarus is reportedly considering a more news-oriented daytime lineup that could incorporate conservative voices, while the primetime is made up of progressive opinion content.

Status reported that it may be difficult to get voices from the MAGA-sphere onto the network, and that "old-school conservatives who appear on MSNBC and are honest about calling out Trump’s lies" are "dismissed as part of the #Resistance." The report added that "Executives like Lazarus really want more MAGA-friendly voices on the air." Status’ Oliver Darcy said that Lazarus is likely thinking of making MSNBC into something like CNBC, the business news channel sister of MSNBC. 

This comes as MSNBC president Rashida Jones is reportedly weighing the decision to leave her role after the inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump, and as ratings at the outlet continue to plummet.