Olbermann And Out

     As many have mentioned, Friday, January 21st, was the last episode of Countdown with Kieth Olbermann. Olbermann had been an MSNBC host since 2004.
     The drama started in November. Olbermann was suspended for four days from MSNBC for making political donations to democratic candidates, including Gabrielle Giffords and failed Senate candidate Jack Conway. Reports were that Olbermann had planned to go on ABC's Good Morning America to discuss the situation, but was threatened with being fired. Olbermann has a colorful history with his superiors, from his very public exit from ESPN, to his employment by Rupert Murdoch, and previous battles with MSNBC management. Although everyone involved at MSNBC is keeping very tight-lipped over his departure, he is said to have received a generous severance and will not be able to appear on television for some months.
     Olbermann gained many liberal fans during the Bush years when he became one of few to oppose the Iraq war. He has managed to alienate some over partisan rhetoric. He supported Barack Obama during the Democratic primary for president, and angered many supporters of Hillary Clinton. It appears he may have made a similar mistake in his support for individual candidates, at least in the eyes of his bosses at MSNBC. While political commentators certainly have the right to support certain candidates over others, perhaps they are better suited to stick to discussing individual issues. Political candidates come with all kinds of strengths and positions that one should consider carefully, and some viewers may assume things about the host that are not true.
     With that being said, we can discuss the next phase of Olbermann's career. Many are already soliciting him for public service. Olbermann is certainly passionate and educated about the issues. There can be no doubt about where he stands or what he brings to the table. In fact, many of his positions may be good for the United States and middle-class Americans, but having Olbermann as a politician may not be a good idea. He is known for his heated political rhetoric, at a time when everyone else is talking about toning it down. He has made dozens of "Special Comments," many about fellow Democrats that would inevitably be his colleagues.
     Lawrence O'Donnell is set to replace Olbermann at 8pm on MSNBC. O'Donnell is a veteran of Washington and Hollywood, having been a contributor to The West Wing. For a more personal look at Kieth Olbermann.