Are CNN and MSNBC Dying?

The ratings for the second quarter of 2025 are in and it is not good news for the two liberal-leaning networks. Looking at the ratings for prime time shows, FOX averaged 2.63M viewers, while CNN had only 20% of this at 538K, and MSNBC had 38% at 1.01M.

Both of the liberal networks have seen recent changes in their prime time lineups. On MSNBC, Jen Saki has replaced Rachel Maddow in the key 9 PM slot, but her ratings have disappointed. She just doesn't generate the interest that the great Rachel Maddow did, with her immense storytelling ability. Both of the liberal networks have experienced serious ratings decline since the 2024 election.

On MSNBC's signature morning show, "Morning Joe", the co-hosts Joe and Mika are rarely both on anymore. This week they have both been off, with no word as to why. In another recent week, Joe was off all week, again with no word as to the reasons for his absence. I note that the network pre-empted the show last summer on the Monday after the Trump assassination attempt and Joe was furious, saying he would quit if this ever happened again. My best guess is that there is serious friction between Joe and Mika and the network, and the show's future is in serious doubt.

Over on CNN, Caitlin Collins does a good job in the 9 PM slot, but her ratings are not good. At 10 P.M. Abby Phillip hosts a panel show that could be good, but it is ruined by the presence of Trumop-lover Scott Jennings, a mean-spirited jerk whose presence on the show is like fingters on a blackboard. He constantly interupts others who don't agree with him, and when not interrupting, he sits there smirking at whoever is talking. CNN would do much better if it got rid of Mr. Jennings; I have to turn the channel whenever he is on. A pity, because Abby Phillip is a delightful presence, full of grace and poise and beauty.

A bad sign is that the PSA's on both of the liberal networks have been more and more frequent. A few days ago every third ad on CNN was a PSA for St. Jude's Hospital. This reflects an inability of the network to sell advertising, which means the financial viability of their shows is in serious jeopardy. The demise of the two liberal networks would leave FOX news in charge. NewsNation is an alternative whose audience is growing rapidly, but it is right-leaning also, though not as badly as FOX. NewsNation does have two excellent shows discussing legal issues, led by Dan Abrams and Ashley Banfield. But the network would have to get rid of the obnoxious clown Chris Cuomo if it wants to fully succeed. One thing I've noticed about NewsNation is that it seems to cover a wider variety of news than the other news networks.