NBC's Steve Kornacki ditches signature khakis for gray pants on Election Day and Internet isn't having it

NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK: Steve Kornacki, NBC and MSNBC's national political correspondent, is well-known for his unwavering focus during election coverage, backed by his signature khaki pants.

However, when Kornacki chose to wear gray dress pants instead of his usual khakis for Election Day coverage this year, it sent social media into a frenzy, with fans expressing disbelief as they were left feeling unsettled by the departure from his trademark look, as per USA Today.

Steve Kornacki ditches khakis for gray trousers as he's 'kind of undecided'

In an interview with 'TODAY', Kornacki hinted that he might deviate from his iconic khaki look, playfully referring to himself as an "undecided voter" in terms of fashion.

He said, "Some voters are undecided in the presidential race, and I guess I’m kind of undecided." 

Known more for his data skills than his wardrobe, the 45-year-old admitted, "I’m not exactly what you call a fashion-forward person. I’ve never had to give too much thought to my wardrobe."

During the 2020 presidential election, Kornacki’s non-stop election analysis, coupled with his khaki pants and white button-down ensemble, became an unexpected internet sensation. 

Fans were glued not only to the election results but also to his relentless, tireless presentation.

This year, although he maintained the white shirt and tie, Kornacki decided to switch to darker pants for Tuesday's election night coverage.

For Kornacki, the fascination over his outfit remains amusing. He shared, "I was amused by the interest. I never really understood it. It’s not like I had [a] lifelong attachment to these pants. They were just what I happened to be wearing that day.”

Yet, those khakis became almost a symbol of election night suspense and dedication, a detail viewers seemed to rely on for reassurance in high-stakes moments.

Kornacki’s dedication to delivering election results is almost legendary, even if it means forsaking a meal to stay sharp.

During his intense reporting stints, he relies on caffeine and hydration to keep himself alert and energized.

Craig Melvin of NBC’s 'TODAY' show shared on X (formerly Twitter) that the team was "caffeinating and hydrating him" and ensuring Kornacki took in nutrients to endure the long hours.

Kornacki explained that he avoids eating on election night because "it makes [him] sluggish" and "takes the edge away," highlighting his commitment to staying sharp for viewers.

Steve Kornacki's pant swap sparks intense reactions across social media

The internet had intense feelings about Steve Kornacki swapping his usual khakis for gray pants. 

One remarked, "Can someone please tell Steve Kornacki that I am superstitious and uncomfortable with his gray pants and not khakis!!!" Another said, "I smell a rat!!! @SteveKornacki is not wearing Khaki’s. Are the election results even real then?"

A person wrote, "What the hell! @SteveKornacki⁩ is wearing gray pants! We can’t be switching things up when I’m this nervous," and someone else added, "Steve Kornacki you and your grey pants are giving me anxiety please go get some khakis and be nicer thank you."

"CHANGE YOUR PANTS STEVE. PUT ON THE REAL KHAKIS IM SO SERIOUS," shared an individual. 

One more expressed, "Steve Kornacki appears to be wearing grey dress pants and not khakis, and idk how to handle this," while another person stated, "Kornacki is wearing gray pants. Concerning."

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.