Breaking: Why Did Harris Faulkner Really Leave Fox News? Update!

Andrew Ward Jr. 20 May 2025

Why did Harris Faulkner, a mainstay of Fox News for nearly two decades, suddenly decide to switch allegiances? The answer isn't as simple as a single headline, but rather a complex interplay of ambition, shifting media landscapes, and perhaps a touch of disillusionment. Her move to NewsNation signals a significant shift in the anchor's career, and the reasons behind it are far more compelling than a simple change of scenery.

Harris Faulkner, a prominent figure in American news broadcasting, built a formidable reputation as a news anchor and television host during her tenure at Fox News Channel. Since joining the network in 2005, she steadily rose through the ranks, eventually anchoring "The Faulkner Focus" and becoming one of the most recognizable and popular faces on Fox. However, the media world was surprised when the announcement came in 2022: Faulkner would be leaving Fox News to join NewsNation, a relatively new entrant in the news broadcasting arena. The announcement left many wondering: What drove this established anchor to leave a network she had called home for so long?

The reasons behind Faulkner's decision are multifaceted, touching upon various aspects of her career and personal aspirations. One significant factor is the allure of a new challenge. After 17 years with Fox News, the desire for a fresh start and a chance to redefine her career path may have been a powerful motivator. The broadcasting world is known for its dynamic and ever-evolving nature, and NewsNation offered Faulkner the unique opportunity to help shape the identity of a burgeoning network. Furthermore, there are suggestions that Faulkner's departure was linked to concerns about the increasingly partisan direction of Fox News. In recent years, the network's political leanings have become more pronounced, and Faulkner, who has often presented herself as an objective journalist, may have felt that she no longer aligned with the network's evolving brand.

Regardless of the precise combination of factors, Harris Faulkner's departure from Fox News marks a noteworthy moment for both the network and the anchor herself. Her experience and journalistic talent were undoubtedly valuable assets to Fox News, and her absence will be felt by colleagues and viewers alike.

Attribute	Details
Name	Harris Faulkner
Born	October 13, 1965, Atlanta, Georgia
Occupation	Journalist, television host, news anchor, author
Education	B.A. in Mass Communications, from Stephens College
Spouse	Michael Hess (m. 2003)
Children	Bella and Danika
Awards	Six Emmy Awards
Military Service	Pre-flight training
Website	Harris Faulkner Official Fox News Profile

One of the primary motivations behind Faulkner's move appears to be the pursuit of greater career advancement. While she had achieved considerable success at Fox News, the opportunity to join NewsNation offered a fresh landscape with potentially wider horizons. NewsNation, being a relatively new network, presented Faulkner with the chance to play a pivotal role in shaping its identity and journalistic direction. This level of influence is a significant draw for established media personalities seeking to leave their mark on the industry.

NewsNation offered Faulkner a platform to not only showcase her existing talents but also to expand her repertoire and take on new responsibilities. As a developing network, NewsNation likely provided a more flexible environment for experimentation and innovation, allowing Faulkner to explore different journalistic approaches and program formats. This prospect of contributing to the network's evolution and assuming a leadership role in its growth trajectory would have been a compelling factor in her decision. Furthermore, the chance to build a program from the ground up, tailoring it to her strengths and vision, likely added to the appeal of this new venture.

The shift in editorial direction at Fox News in recent years is another key element to consider when examining Faulkner's decision to leave. As the network's political stance became increasingly pronounced, some observers noted that Faulkner's journalistic style, often characterized by a commitment to objectivity and fairness, might have been at odds with the network's evolving brand. NewsNation, on the other hand, positioned itself as a non-partisan news provider, a philosophy that could have resonated strongly with Faulkner's professional values.

The increasing partisanship within Fox News may have created a sense of unease for Faulkner, who has often been praised for her ability to conduct balanced and insightful interviews with guests from across the political spectrum. Maintaining journalistic integrity in an environment increasingly dominated by strong ideological viewpoints can be a challenging task, and it is plausible that Faulkner sought a news platform where she could exercise her journalistic skills without the constraints of a predetermined political narrative. NewsNation's commitment to presenting news without bias likely offered a more conducive environment for Faulkner to uphold her professional standards and continue delivering news in a fair and objective manner. The opportunity to report on stories without having to navigate the complexities of partisan politics would have been an attractive proposition for a journalist committed to unbiased reporting.

Beyond the professional considerations, personal reasons may have also played a significant role in Faulkner's decision to leave Fox News. The demands of a high-profile career in television journalism can be particularly challenging for working mothers, and Faulkner, who has two young children, may have been seeking a better work-life balance. The decision to prioritize family and personal well-being is a common one, especially among women in demanding professions, and it is plausible that Faulkner's move to NewsNation was, in part, motivated by a desire to spend more time with her children and create a more sustainable lifestyle.

The long hours, travel commitments, and constant pressure that come with being a prominent news anchor can take a toll on personal life. NewsNation may have offered Faulkner a schedule or work arrangement that allowed for greater flexibility and more opportunities to be present in her children's lives. This could have involved reduced travel requirements, more predictable work hours, or the ability to work remotely on occasion. The prospect of being able to attend school events, participate in family activities, and simply spend more quality time with her loved ones would have been a compelling factor for any working mother, and Faulkner's decision to prioritize her family is a testament to her commitment to both her career and her personal life.

Financial considerations undoubtedly played a role in Faulkner's decision to switch networks. In the competitive world of broadcast journalism, contracts are often negotiated fiercely, and it is likely that NewsNation offered Faulkner a more lucrative financial package than Fox News. The offer may have included a higher base salary, enhanced benefits, and other financial incentives designed to attract a high-profile talent to the burgeoning network.

Beyond the immediate financial gains, the contract with NewsNation may have also provided Faulkner with greater long-term financial security and opportunities for wealth creation. This could have included stock options, performance-based bonuses, or other forms of equity participation in the network. Moreover, the new role at NewsNation might have opened doors to other lucrative opportunities, such as book deals, public speaking engagements, and endorsements, further enhancing her financial prospects. In the entertainment and media industries, where job security can often be tenuous, a financially attractive contract can provide a valuable safety net and a strong foundation for future success.

The difference in political affiliation between Fox News and NewsNation may have also influenced Faulkner's decision. While Faulkner identifies as a conservative, NewsNation has positioned itself as a non-partisan news organization. This distinction may have been appealing to Faulkner, who may have felt that she could express her views more freely and objectively on a network that is not explicitly aligned with any particular political ideology.

Faulkner's commitment to journalistic integrity and her desire to present news in a fair and balanced manner could have been a driving force behind her decision to seek a network that prioritizes objectivity over partisan messaging. The ability to report on stories without having to adhere to a predetermined political agenda would have allowed Faulkner to exercise her journalistic skills with greater freedom and independence. Furthermore, NewsNation's non-partisan stance may have been more aligned with Faulkner's personal brand, allowing her to reach a wider audience and connect with viewers across the political spectrum.

The workplace culture at Fox News has come under scrutiny in recent years, with some former employees alleging a toxic environment characterized by fear and intimidation. These allegations, while not directly linked to Faulkner's departure, may have contributed to her decision to leave the network. A positive and supportive work environment is essential for professional fulfillment, and it is plausible that Faulkner sought a network with a more inclusive and respectful culture.

A key concern that has plagued Fox News has been the perceived lack of diversity and inclusion within its ranks. Reports have indicated that the network lags behind its competitors in terms of representation of women and people of color in leadership positions and on-air talent. This lack of diversity can create a sense of exclusion and marginalization for employees from underrepresented groups. Faulkner, as a prominent woman of color in the industry, may have felt that NewsNation offered a more welcoming and inclusive environment where her contributions would be valued and respected.

Fox News has experienced a decline in viewership in recent years, as more viewers turn to alternative news sources. This decline may have prompted Faulkner to consider the long-term prospects of the network and seek a platform with a more promising future. The changing media landscape, with the rise of streaming services and digital news outlets, has created new opportunities for journalists and news organizations.

Faulkner may have felt that NewsNation, with its focus on unbiased reporting and its commitment to reaching a wider audience, was better positioned to thrive in this evolving environment. The network's investment in digital platforms and its efforts to attract a younger demographic may have also appealed to Faulkner, who has a strong presence on social media and a desire to connect with a new generation of news consumers.

These factors, coupled with the broader trends in the media landscape, may have collectively influenced Faulkner's decision to leave Fox News and embark on a new chapter in her career at NewsNation. The move represents a calculated bet on the future of news and a desire to align herself with a network that shares her values and ambitions.

Question 1: Why did Harris Faulkner leave Fox News?

Answer: Harris Faulkner's departure from Fox News to join NewsNation appears to stem from a complex combination of factors:

Desire for new challenges and opportunities at a burgeoning network.
Concerns regarding Fox News' increasingly partisan direction and its potential impact on journalistic objectivity.
Personal considerations, potentially including a quest for improved work-life balance.
Financial incentives and the prospect of a more lucrative contract at NewsNation.
Alignment with NewsNation's non-partisan stance and a desire to express views more freely.
Seeking a more positive and supportive workplace culture.
A potential assessment of Fox News' declining viewership and long-term prospects in a rapidly changing media landscape.

Question 2: What is Harris Faulkner's new role at NewsNation?

Answer: Harris Faulkner assumed the role of host for "The Faulkner Focus" on NewsNation. This program is a daily news and talk show, broadcast on weekdays from 12pm to 2pm ET.