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Maria Bartiromo Leaves Fox News Amid Speculation of Future Role

4 weeks ago 0

Maria Bartiromo, a prominent television ally of former President Donald Trump, has unexpectedly departed from Fox News after over a decade. The network did not provide a reason for her exit, sparking speculation about a potential role in the Trump administration.

In a statement to Newsweek, Fox confirmed that Bartiromo’s departure was effective immediately. The network expressed gratitude for her service of 12 and a half years, wishing her well in future endeavors. Her show, Mornings with Maria, aired its last episode on Thursday, while Maria Bartiromo’s Wall Street is rebranding as FBN’s Wall Street. Jason Chaffetz will temporarily fill her position on Sunday Morning Futures, with a permanent replacement to be announced later.

Despite her departure, Bartiromo remained a ratings success at Fox. Sunday Morning Futures was the network’s top-rated weekend show, drawing approximately 1.9 million viewers in the year’s second quarter. This suggests that ratings issues did not prompt her exit.

Potential Political Transition

There is speculation that Bartiromo, aged 58, might transition from television to a political role in Washington. Some suggest she could replace White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, who departed in August. Known for her close relationship with Trump, Bartiromo has provided him with a supportive platform while sometimes challenging his administration, particularly on issues like tariff policies.

Fox has not disclosed Bartiromo’s next plans. Newsweek has sought comments from both Bartiromo and White House representatives.

Controversies and Legal Matters

Bartiromo’s coverage of the 2020 presidential election remains her most significant controversy. She gave significant airtime to Trump’s election fraud claims and repeatedly interviewed Trump lawyer Sidney Powell. These broadcasts became crucial in litigation involving Dominion Voting Systems and Fox. Bartiromo defended her coverage, stating her audience was interested in Trump’s team’s actions and that she scrutinized their evidence.

She was also named as a defendant in Smartmatic’s defamation lawsuit against Fox News. This scrutiny did not erode her support among Trump’s political base and solidified her status as a prominent pro-Trump figure at Fox.

In 2020, she faced embarrassment when an animal rights activist disguised as the CEO of Smithfield Foods appeared on her Fox Business show. The imposter was on air for over six minutes before being detected.

Maria Bartiromo: From Financial Journalist to Political Ally

Bartiromo, a seasoned financial journalist, became a prominent figure in American business television before evolving into a known conservative media presence. Born in Brooklyn, New York, in 1967 to an Italian-American family, she began her television career at CNN as a producer and editor. She transitioned to CNBC in 1993, where she reported live daily from the New York Stock Exchange, gaining recognition as CNBC’s top anchor and earning the nickname ‘Money Honey’.

Her CNBC programs—Closing Bell, Market Watch, and On the Money with Maria Bartiromo—featured interviews with key business figures, earning her multiple Emmy Awards.

In 2013, she moved to Fox Business, shifting from financial news to include politics and national affairs. Her shows Mornings with Maria, Maria Bartiromo’s Wall Street, and Sunday Morning Futures aligned her closely with Trump’s political movement.

In her personal life, Bartiromo is married to Jonathan Steinberg, CEO of investment firm WisdomTree, founded by his family. They have no children.

The Path Ahead

Bartiromo’s close relationship with Trump increases the possibility of a role in his administration. Her television profile, economic background, and alignment with Trump’s movement could lead to a communications or media role. However, Bartiromo has not always been a Trump administration supporter and has challenged it on economic communications.

In March 2025, Bartiromo questioned Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent about the administration’s changing explanations for its tariff policy. Her scrutiny stood out given her otherwise supportive stance toward Trump.

Furthermore, she challenged Trump’s claims regarding the military situation with Iran, showcasing a complexity in her relationship with the administration.

This history complicates her potential transition to a government role, despite her strong connection with Trump.

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