After news broke earlier this month that CNN was looking to relaunch “Crossfire,” several sources told Politico that the network was looking to tap former House Speaker Newt Gingrich and former Obama campaign manager Stephanie Cutter to fill the dueling roles.
“They are talking to Cutter and to Gingrich,” a source familiar with the discussions said. “[Cutter] is in discussions; Newt is in discussions too,” another source familiar with the talks told Politico.
Spokespeople with CNN, Cutter and Gingrich did not respond to requests for comment or confirmation.
“Crossfire” is a debate-style show that pits one conservative pundit and one liberal pundit against each other on a wide range of topics. Should the talks go through, it is unclear whether the pair would appear regularly or rotate with other co-hosts.
This is the latest in a long list of developments at CNN since it’s new chief, Jeff Zucker, took the reins. The Washington Times reported in late February that the network was not renewing veteran reporter Soledad O’Brien’s contract.
• Jessica Chasmar can be reached at jchasmar@washingtontimes.com.
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