Cable news network NewsNation has hired veteran political analyst and commentator Katie Pavlich to host a new weeknight program in its 10 p.m. ET time slot, the channel announced in December 2025. The show, titled Katie Pavlich Tonight, debuted on January 19, 2026, taking over the hour previously occupied by Ashleigh Banfield.
Banfield has remained with the network but shifted her focus to overseeing its true crime digital content and related programming.
Pavlich’s new program emphasizes political news and analysis, exploring topics including free speech, culture, immigration, national security, and foreign policy. It features spirited debates, dynamic panel discussions, and in-depth interviews with key newsmakers. The format aims to deliver straightforward, fact-based journalism while presenting diverse viewpoints to help viewers understand the day’s major headlines.
Sean Compton, president of Nexstar Networks, said in the announcement: “We’re pleased to give our primetime viewers an additional hour of political news and analysis. NewsNation has always been committed to delivering straightforward, fact-based journalism for all Americans… Katie is a seasoned journalist and commentator, and we believe her unique voice will be a tremendous asset to our primetime audience.”
Pavlich, who recently stepped down from her long-running role as news editor at the conservative website Townhall.com after more than 15 years, expressed enthusiasm about the move. “I am honored to join NewsNation during this dynamic period in its development,” she said. “The opportunity to anchor a primetime program is an exceptional privilege. I look forward to bringing a fresh perspective on the news to Americans across the country, while presenting a venue for thoughtful debate across a wide spectrum of opinions. It’s a front row seat to history — I can’t wait to buckle in and get started.”
A native of Arizona, Pavlich holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in broadcast journalism from the University of Arizona. She built a prominent media career as a political contributor and analyst at Fox News Channel since 2013, regularly appearing as a guest co-host on The Five and guest-hosting multiple primetime shows. She also contributed to Fox Nation documentaries and series.
Pavlich is the author of two notable books, including the 2012 New York Times bestseller Fast and Furious: Barack Obama’s Bloodiest Scandal (detailing the controversial ATF gun-tracking operation during the Obama administration) and the 2014 release Assault & Flattery: The Truth About the Left and Their War on Women.
Her addition to NewsNation continues the network’s strategy of bringing in experienced voices from across the media landscape, joining other former Fox News-associated personalities such as Leland Vittert and Chris Stirewalt, as well as Geraldo Rivera. Pavlich has emphasized that her approach on the new show will prioritize “facts first, opinion second.”
With this primetime expansion, NewsNation aims to strengthen its position as a source of balanced, in-depth political coverage amid a rapidly evolving media environment. Pavlich’s program adds another layer of analysis to the network’s growing lineup, appealing to viewers seeking substantive discussions on the issues shaping the nation.
