Chuck Todd makes surprise exit from NBC News after 17 years, explains why it's 'perfect time' to leave

Chuck Todd makes surprise exit from NBC News after 17 years, explains why it's 'perfect time' to leave
Chuck Todd first joined NBC News in 2007 as political director (Getty Images)

NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK: Chuck Todd bids farewell to NBC News after nearly two decades, highlighting the challenges facing modern journalism and his plans for the future.

On Friday, January 31, the veteran political journalist announced his departure from NBC News after 17 years, marking the end of a significant chapter in political broadcasting.

Chuck Todd's departure from NBC News


WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 27: Chuck Todd attends the 31st Annual White House Correspondents' Garden Brunch at Beall-Washington House on April 27, 2024 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Paul Morigi/Getty Images for Haddad Media)
Chuck Todd attends the 31st Annual White House Correspondents' Garden Brunch at Beall-Washington House on April 27, 2024, in Washington, DC (Getty Images)

In a heartfelt memo to staff, Todd reflected on his career at the network, acknowledging that leaving a place that has been his professional home for so long is not easy.

However, he stated that he felt now was the “perfect time” to step away and pursue new opportunities.

Todd first joined NBC News in 2007 as political director, a milestone that coincided with a major personal event—his son’s birth.

“I started as political director in 2007, a month before my son was born, and he’ll be graduating high school in a few months,” he wrote, adding, “So I guess this means I’ve been here a while.”

What's next for Chuck Todd?

Chuck Todd became a household name in political journalism, hosting 'Meet the Press' for nine years before stepping down in 2023.

His coverage spanned five US presidents, major elections, and defining political moments.

While he is leaving NBC, Todd assured his colleagues and viewers that his work in political journalism is far from over.

He confirmed that he will continue his podcast 'The Chuck Toddcast' which offers in-depth analysis of American politics.



 

He also teased “a few new projects” in the works, though he did not provide specifics.

Chuck Todd's call to rebuild trust in journalism

Beyond emphasized that journalism faces a crucial moment in rebuilding public trust, which he believes should begin at the local level.

“The media has a lot of work to do to win back the trust of viewers, listeners, and readers,” he wrote.


NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JULY 15: Chuck Todd attends as Universal Pictures presents an OPPENHEIMER Trinity Anniversary Special Screening at the Whitby Hotel on July 15, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Roy Rochlin/Getty Images For Universal Pictures )
Chuck Todd attends as Universal Pictures presents an Oppenheimer Trinity Anniversary Special Screening at the Whitby Hotel on July 15, 2023, in New York City (Getty Images)

Todd criticized the overreliance on social media algorithms for news distribution, arguing that national media needs strong local partners to restore credibility.

“The only way to fix this information ecosystem is to stop whining about the various ways social media companies are manipulating things and instead roll up our collective sleeves and start with local,” he urged.

“People are craving community, and that’s something national media or the major social media companies can’t do as well as local media,” he added.

NBC News acknowledges Chuck Todd’s contributions



 

NBC News issued a statement expressing gratitude for Todd’s contributions over the years, particularly his leadership at 'Meet the Press.'

“We’re grateful for Chuck’s many contributions to our political coverage during his nearly two-decade career at NBC News and for his deep commitment to Meet the Press and its enduring legacy," read their statement.

"We wish him all the best in his next endeavors,” the statement added, according to People.

Internet not disappointed with Chuck Todd's NBC exit

Netizens, especially MAGA supporters took to social media to express their happiness over Chuck Todd's NBC exit as President Donald Trump has previously noted his distate for the political journalist.

One user on X wrote, "Good riddance." Another tweeted, "Trump keeps winning," while someone commented, "Podcast world for him. No one will listen."



 



 



 

"Legacy media will continue to shrink," a user opined. An individual remarked, "He was so boring. And very politically biased. It showed." A netizen wrote, "Let's give his Press Room seat to "one of us" who will REPORT the truth and ask REAL questions."



 



 



 

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