CNN’s NewsNight with Abby Phillip may be basking in its third consecutive month atop the network’s ratings in the key 25–54 demographic, but a growing chorus of voices is suggesting the real engine behind the show's momentum isn't the host—it’s the guest.
Abby Phillip proudly shared CNN's PR announcement hailing her program’s “double-digit” year-over-year growth and its position as CNN’s most-watched show in the advertiser-coveted demo. In an industry where ratings translate directly into influence, this would typically be a moment of unmitigated celebration. Yet what followed was something altogether different: a subtle, yet public reframing of credit.
"NewsNight with Abby Phillip continues to be a standout performer for CNN, ranking as the network’s most watched program among P25-54 for the third consecutive month. Further, NewsNight grew by impressive, double-digit margins year-over-year among both demos."…
— Abby D. Phillip (@abbydphillip) April 30, 2025
Conservative pundit Scott Jennings, a regular guest on NewsNight, has become something of a cult favorite among viewers—not for bombast, but for his calm, incisive, and occasionally meme-worthy delivery. With a dry wit and a disarming “Jim Halpert-from-The-Office” style stare that seems to break the fourth wall of cable news, Jennings has carved out a niche that even his political opponents respect.
Tomi Lahren, never one to mince words, summed it up with biting brevity: “Thanks solely to @ScottJenningsKY.” And when even liberal voices like Charlamagne tha God echo that sentiment, the message is hard to ignore. “Scott actually gives a f***… A lot of bit actually,” Charlamagne admitted, pointing to Jennings’ thoughtful presence as a much-needed alternative to the usual partisan performance art.
"NewsNight with Abby Phillip continues to be a standout performer for CNN, ranking as the network’s most watched program among P25-54 for the third consecutive month. Further, NewsNight grew by impressive, double-digit margins year-over-year among both demos."…
— Abby D. Phillip (@abbydphillip) April 30, 2025
What’s fascinating is not just the praise Jennings is receiving, but how it highlights an ongoing evolution in political commentary. Viewers, fatigued by constant outrage and ideological shouting matches, are rewarding shows that include smart, substantive conservatives who don’t posture for attention. Jennings embodies that trend, and for NewsNight, he may be the unexpected linchpin.
This doesn’t mean Abby Phillip isn’t anchoring a strong show. It means the show’s success may be due, in part, to a chemistry—perhaps even tension—between host and guest that reflects what many Americans crave: reasoned disagreement, not tribal warfare.
"NewsNight with Abby Phillip continues to be a standout performer for CNN, ranking as the network’s most watched program among P25-54 for the third consecutive month. Further, NewsNight grew by impressive, double-digit margins year-over-year among both demos."…
— Abby D. Phillip (@abbydphillip) April 30, 2025