In a move that further defines its editorial direction, the self-styled centrist cable channel NewsNation has recruited another prominent figure from Fox News to anchor a primetime programme.
The network confirmed on Monday, 15 December 2025, that longtime Fox News contributor and Townhall news editor Katie Pavlich will take over the 10 p.m. ET slot, following the departure of anchor Ashleigh Banfield.
Building a Primetime Lineup with Fox Alumni
Pavlich's appointment marks the second instance of NewsNation filling a key evening hour with a former Fox News personality. She joins Leland Vittert, a former Fox anchor who currently hosts On Balance at 9 p.m. ET.
In a statement, Nexstar Networks president Sean Compton said the network was "pleased to give our primetime viewers an additional hour of political news and analysis." He emphasised NewsNation's commitment to "straightforward, fact-based journalism for all Americans" and presenting diverse viewpoints, calling Pavlich a "seasoned journalist and commentator."
Pavlich, who spent 16 years at the conservative site Townhall and was a regular co-host on Fox's The Five, stated she was "honored to join NewsNation during this dynamic period." Her new show, set to debut in early 2026, will focus on topics including free speech, immigration, and national security, featuring panel discussions and debates.
A Strategic Shift Towards the Right?
Since its launch, NewsNation has actively marketed itself as a middle-ground alternative to more partisan outlets like CNN and MS NOW. However, its hiring strategy has consistently drawn from the talent pool of the right-leaning Fox News.
This trend was acknowledged by Nexstar chief Perry Sook in 2021, who noted that aiming for a centrist position would naturally make the network appear more conservative compared to other mainstream newsrooms, which he viewed as leaning left. Early staff had reportedly expressed concerns about potential conservative bias.
The roster of ex-Fox personnel at NewsNation is now substantial. Alongside Vittert and Pavlich, it includes:
- Former Fox Business correspondent Blake Burman
- Ex-Fox Business anchor Connell McShane
- Former Fox & Friends Weekend co-host Anna Kooiman
- Longtime Fox News correspondent Laura Ingle
Notably, the network's political director is Chris Stirewalt, who was fired from Fox News after the 2020 election. Correspondent-at-large Geraldo Rivera also joined after leaving Fox in 2023.
Ratings Growth and a Key Exception
The strategy appears to be yielding audience gains. In September, NewsNation recorded a 23 percent increase in its primetime viewership and an eight percent rise among viewers aged 25 to 54.
Despite the influx of Fox talent, the network's most-watched programme is anchored by former CNN star Chris Cuomo at 8 p.m. ET. Cuomo, who has become more critical of liberals since his return to air, represents a significant exception to the Fox-dominated lineup. The 7 p.m. hour remains anchored by Elizabeth Vargas with a straight news broadcast.
Pavlich's hiring follows closely on NewsNation's recruitment of commentator Batya Ungar-Sargon for a weekend show. Meanwhile, Ashleigh Banfield, who hosted the 10 p.m. show since 2021, will transition to leading the network's true crime digital content.
This latest appointment solidifies NewsNation's distinctive, and arguably contentious, path to establishing its 'centrist' brand in the crowded cable news landscape.
