MSNBC Plans Layoffs Impacting 99 Union Staffers Amid Overhaul

MSNBC is implementing mass layoffs affecting around 99 employees, primarily members of the Writers Guild of America East, amid a major restructuring of its programming lineup. The layoffs will impact staff from at least nine shows, including 'The ReidOut' and 'Alex Wagner Tonight,' following recent announcements of a near-total overhaul of the network's schedule. The union has condemned these cuts as devastating and has called for the reassignment of affected employees rather than layoffs, emphasizing the need for a fully staffed newsroom during a critical political environment. MSNBC has stated that laid-off employees may apply for new positions that will be available, a move criticized by staff, including Rachel Maddow, who described it as unprecedented and inefficient. The timing of these layoffs coincides with escalating tensions from the Trump Administration against MSNBC, further heightening concerns about the implications of reduced staffing. As the network transitions under new leadership, the union demands adherence to existing collective bargaining agreements regarding layoffs.