CNN’s Scott Jennings Lands Lucrative Contract Extension: Report
CNN’s conservative commentator Scott Jennings is reportedly close to finalizing a lucrative contract extension with the network, solidifying his position as a key voice in the Trump era, according to a recent report.
Sources familiar with the matter indicate that Jennings has been engaged in behind-the-scenes negotiations for months, leveraging his high-profile presence on CNN’s political panels. Under the leadership of CEO Mark Thompson, CNN appears to be embracing a more pronounced right-leaning perspective as media organizations navigate the shifting political landscape post-2024 election.
According to insiders who spoke with Status, a media briefing newsletter launched by former CNN media reporter Oliver Darcy, Jennings is expected to receive a substantial pay increase as part of the new agreement, though certain details remain under discussion.
When approached for comment, a CNN spokesperson declined to discuss Jennings’ contract negotiations. However, the decision to retain him underscores the network’s commitment to maintaining conservative voices, a strategy aimed at bolstering ratings and engaging audiences across the political spectrum.
Jennings, a veteran GOP strategist and former adviser to President George W. Bush, has been a fixture at CNN, offering Republican viewpoints on major issues. While his commentary often contrasts with the network’s more liberal panelists, his presence has been instrumental in CNN’s efforts to present diverse perspectives in an increasingly polarized media environment.
Meanwhile, Los Angeles Times owner Dr. Patrick Soon-Shiong has been reshaping the newspaper’s editorial board, as legacy media outlets continue to face industry challenges. In an effort to introduce more ideological diversity, Soon-Shiong welcomed Jennings onto the board last fall, granting him a platform to write op-ed columns for the publication.
“It’s true—I’ve accepted Dr. Soon-Shiong’s invitation to join the editorial board of the Los Angeles Times,” Jennings confirmed on X. “I’ve written columns for the paper over the last few years and was honored to do so under such a storied and important masthead. I love newspapers and believe in strong journalism and strong opinion pages that represent a wide array of views.”
“I plan to represent those Americans who believe they are often ignored or even ridiculed in legacy media and applaud Dr. Soon-Shiong’s move to bring balance to the editorial board,” he continued.
“My other professional obligations won’t be impacted by this new opportunity,” he added.
In November, shortly after Donald Trump’s re-election, Soon-Shiong expressed his enthusiasm for Jennings’ addition to the editorial board.
“That’s why I want Scott on our new editorial board!!! Growing the board with experts who have thoughtful balanced views and new candidates are accepting the challenge to join us! Way to go Scott and thanks for accepting @latimes @ScottJenningsKY Stay tuned we are making this happen,” he stated.
Additionally, the New York Post recently reported that Jennings, who played a role in former Senate GOP leader Mitch McConnell’s past reelection campaigns, is being encouraged to run for McConnell’s Senate seat following the senator’s announcement that his current term will be his last.
“Jennings is being privately and publicly encouraged to run for Kentucky Sen. Mitch McConnell’s open Senate seat in 2026, sources, including a Republican operative familiar with the race, told Fox News Digital,” the report stated.
“Some conservative personalities floated the possibility publicly on X. The pundit is known for his advocacy of the Trump administration on the airwaves, and he regularly goes viral for debating liberal pundits on the cable television network,” The Post added.
“Could I nominate [Scott Jennings] for the United States Senate from the Commonwealth of Kentucky? He’d be a hell of a McConnell replacement,” conservative pundit Erick Erickson tweeted.
“I would absolutely support my friend [Scott Jennings] for U.S. Senate. But he’d also make a fine governor for the great state of Kentucky as well,” Republican strategist Dustin Grage added.