MSNBC's Shuster Suspended After Hillary Camp Criticizes Chelsea "Pimp" Remark
Here's the statement sent over to us by MSNBC spokesperson Jeremy Gaines, responding to the Hillary campaign's sharp criticism of David Shuster's on-air Chelsea "pimp" remark:
On Thursday's "Tucker" on MSNBC, David Shuster, who was serving as guest-host of the program, made a comment about Chelsea Clinton and the Clinton campaign that was irresponsible and inappropriate. Shuster, who apologized this morning on MSNBC and will again this evening, has been suspended from appearing on all NBC News broadcasts, other than to make his apology. He has also extended an apology to the Clinton family. NBC News takes these matters seriously, and offers our sincere regrets to the Clintons for the remarks.
No word on the length of the suspension. Separately, Ben Smith had a nice catch: He noted that the upcoming Ohio debate would be held on NBC, and asked whether the Hillary camp would really be taking a pass. The rest of MSNBC's statement suggests that this is still up in the air:
Both the Clinton and Obama campaigns accepted invitations from us on Thursday evening to participate in a February 26th debate. Our conversations with the Clinton campaign about their participation continue today, and we are hopeful that the event will take place as planned.
One suspects, however, that given the Hillary camp's desire for more debates and more face-to-face time with Obama, the suspension will be enough and Hillary will attend.
Late Update: We have more on MSNBC's coverage of the race over at The Horse's Mouth.
Late Late Update: MSNBC spokesperson Jeremy Gaines tells me that Shuster's suspension is "temporary," adding that the length of it hasn't been determined.
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