Biden decision surprised most TV news networks: How CBS, MSNBC and more rushed to cover the bombshell

Many knew it would happen, but not exactly when.

The nation’s major television news networks appeared to be taken by surprise by President Joe Biden’s announcement on Sunday that he would end his campaign for the White House in 2024. Many key anchors were off-screen in the minutes after the president delivered his shocking message.

Networks brought in less familiar faces. CBS News began at 2:02 p.m. with a report moderated by Kristine Johnson, an anchor at WCBS, the company’s New York station, suggesting that Norah O’Donnell, Margaret Brennan, or Major Garrett were not immediately available (O’Donnell and Brennan came on about 45 minutes later). NBC News followed with a special report 30 seconds later, moderated by Hallie Jackson, who was recently named to anchor the weekend “NBC Nightly News.” ABC News began at 2:04 p.m. with a report moderated by Rachel Scott, its senior congressional correspondent.