Ed Rendell Signs With NBC as Political Analyst

Former Pennsylvania Gov. Ed Rendell has signed on with NBC News and cable channel MSNBC as a political analyst within a week of the departure of Keith Olbermann. The former Philadelphia mayor and Democratic National Committee chairman will take up the post immediately, The Washington Post reports.

In a release, NBC said that Rendell “has never been afraid to share his thoughtful analysis on national and local issues and he couldn't be a better fit for NBC News. His extensive experience serving the people of Pennsylvania gives him a unique perspective and we're thrilled to have him on board."

Rendell, who is married to a federal appellate court judge, has been a frequent contributor to the talk show circuit, the Post noted.

"I'm excited about this new opportunity with NBC because I believe our country faces critical challenges in the next two years. The ability to have my voice heard and create an impact on the political discourse is exciting to me and is an extension of my continued commitment to public life," Rendell said, according to the Post.

The announcement comes on the heels of the abrupt departure of Olbermann, who had hosted the prime-time show “Countdown” since 2003. Olbermann, who had clashed with management, is often credited with the rise of MSNBC.