Rick Klein is the Political Director of ABC News, leading the network’s political coverage and serving as an on-air political analyst across ABC News platforms. In an environment where viewers are altering the way they consume news and information, Klein discusses how political candidates are harnessing the power of new media and messaging to disrupt traditional campaigning. He explains the way in which candidates embracing this new trend and tapping into changing socio-economic forces have made the biggest waves in politics. Smart, witty and full of insider knowledge, Klein’s political commentary on today’s trending stories is entertaining and insightful, peppered with personal anecdotes from some of the largest political players and his predictions about what lies ahead.

On a daily basis, Klein goes into the trenches with the campaigns, gathering up-to the minute intel on the inner workings of Washington politics. He splits his time between delivering commentary on camera and prepping behind-the-scenes to plan ABC’s biggest political moments, including presidential interviews and debates. Rick Klein came to Washington in 2004 as a reporter covering the Bush Campaign, and has since become a trusted voice inside the Beltway, using his sharp instincts to stay ahead of the curve on political news.

Offering his well-researched, illuminating insight, Klein contributes stories and analysis to all ABC News broadcasts, including “Good Morning America” and “World News Tonight with David Muir.” He also provides regular political commentary and analysis for ABC News Radio, ABC News digital and live-streaming programs, and NewsOne, the network's affiliate news service. In addition to his role with ABC, Klein is the co-host of two podcasts, “Politics Confidential” and “Capital Games.” He is also a regular guest on Fox News, and has appeared on CNN, MSNBC, C-SPAN, and PBS.

Prior to his current position, Klein served as senior political reporter for ABC and wrote The Note, a daily political blog and tip sheet that The New Yorker magazine called "the most influential morning tip sheet in Washington.” He also served as a reporter for The Boston Globe, covering Congress and national politics, and formerly co-hosted “Top Line,” a political Webcast, and “Politics Live,” an ABC digital program featuring Sam Donaldson.  

A native of Long Island, New York, Klein graduated with a degree in politics from Princeton University, where he served as editor-in-chief of The Daily Princetonian.

Continue Reading »