Rick Klein, ABC News' senior Washington editor, will be taking on a larger role as the network's political director. ABC News chief Ben Sherwood made the announcement in a memo to staff on Wednesday.
Klein served as senior Washington editor and on air political analyst for the network's nightly newscast, "World News with Diane Sawyer." Before joining ABC News in 2007, Klein covered Congress for the Boston Globe.
"Rick's sharp instincts and penetrating insights played a critical role throughout the 2012 election cycle, helping guide World News reporting on campaigns and political battles in Washington," Sherwood wrote. "Rick was a key member of the editorial team that produced two of the most-watched debates of the Republican primaries. And when Martha Raddatz was picked to moderate the Vice Presidential debate, Rick enthusiastically took on a leading part in debate prep as a very convincing Paul Ryan."
Klein will oversee the network's political team and lead ABC News' digital initiatives. This is the latest in a string of changes in ABC News' Washington bureau. On Monday, the network announced that New York Times reporter Jeff Zeleny would join the network as senior Washington correspondent. The Times' Susan Saulny will also join ABC's Washington bureau as a correspondent. Scroll down to see Sherwood's entire memo below.
I am pleased to announce that Rick Klein is moving into an important role as Political Director of ABC News.
In a job created by the legendary Hal Bruno, Rick will oversee the political unit and lead our digital efforts around politics while helping to steer the network's coverage of major news events on all platforms.
Rick's sharp instincts and penetrating insights played a critical role throughout the 2012 election cycle, helping guide World News reporting on campaigns and political battles in Washington.
Rick was a key member of the editorial team that produced two of the most-watched debates of the Republican primaries. And when Martha Raddatz was picked to moderate the Vice Presidential debate, Rick enthusiastically took on a leading part in debate prep as a very convincing Paul Ryan. In fact, in the mock debates, he captured virtually every rhetorical point and personal mannerism -- except for gulping water.
Whether contributing to "The Note" or co-anchoring live-stream coverage from the conventions, Rick plays a key role in our online efforts. And as co-host of "Top Line," Rick has helped to make our "Power Players" series with Yahoo! one of the most watched video series online.
Rick has established himself as a trusted voice by puncturing Beltway talking points and poll-tuned messages, staying far ahead of the curve on national affairs and political news. Well respected in political circles, Rick has covered national campaigns since his days atThe Boston Globe.
As you can see in recent days, our powerhouse political team is bulking up and taking shape for the most important news, debate, drama and intrigue of this year and beyond.
Please joining me in congratulating Rick.
Ben
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