Why Is John King Leaving 'Inside Politics'? Abby Phillip Is Taking Over
Updated Jan. 17 2021, 8:51 p.m. ET
Those who only tune into CNN for Election Day coverage recognize John King as "that map guy who knows everything about how each individual county typically votes." (Seriously, watching him manipulate the "magic map" is impressive.) However, if you tune into the network on a more regular basis, then you probably know John from his Inside Politics segment, which airs at noon Monday through Friday and at 8 a.m. on Sundays.
But why is John leaving Inside Politics?
Abby Phillip is taking over on Sundays for John King on 'Inside Politics.'
On Jan. 11, CNN announced that John King would be leaving Inside Politics — but only on Sundays. The longtime news anchor will remain hosting the program on weekdays.
Abby will take over on Sunday mornings starting on Jan. 24, 2021, and it will be called Inside Politics Sunday With Abby Phillip.
Abby took to Twitter on Jan. 17 to reflect on her journey as part of the CNN team.
"Five years ago, I was on Inside Politics Sunday with @JohnKingCNN for the first time and I’ve been grateful for his support ever since," she tweeted. "Honored to be taking the baton from you after today, my friend. Congratulations on an amazing run!"
Why is John King leaving 'Inside Politics'?
It's unclear why, exactly, John is stepping back from Inside Politics on Sundays. However, the CNN anchor seems pumped about the extra sleep that's coming his way.
John King re-tweeted Abby's post, also writing, "This is one new normal to celebrate. Changing my Sunday alarm to a little later now, but will be up in time to watch!"
So don't worry, folks: John King isn't retiring from CNN anytime soon. He made sure to clarify this via Twitter when the news was announced.
One concerned Twitter user wrote, "So... after January 24th am I only going to get to watch @JohnKingCNN on CNN during elections? Or??? I’m gonna miss him, but I’m very happy for @abbydphillip!"
To that, John replied, "M-F noon Eastern for sure. And any other time they ask me to wear a tie or explore a map."
Catch Inside Politics with John King at noon Monday through Friday and Inside Politics Sunday With Abby Phillip at 8 a.m. on Sundays on CNN.
