cbpolitico

Erin Burnett came to CNN with a background as a financial and international reporter - originally wanting her show to focus on global markets, she made the turn to domestic-only focus given the demands of contemporary audiences though that international political economist training still provides her with a lot of insight that others simply do not have. She thinks in 'big picture' while recognizing how each small nuanced part can alter the larger whole - and she makes it clear to her audiences.

She is open with her opinions, but she is well-reasoned, logical and factually driven. You don't have to agree with her personal views to recognize the quality of her analysis and approach. That can't be said of many nighttime anchors whose views are presented as facts. Indeed, sometimes it may seem Burnett does the same - until you realize that she is simply stating factual information with a passion in her voice and strong analytical skills.

She can get overly self-righteous at times, but show me a nighttime anchor who doesn't. She certainly isn't nearly as bad as her own network's Chris Cuomo.

Burnett is my only nightly news program that I really try not to miss. There are plenty of other great ones, and the contemporary disinterest in international politics and markets has made some of Erin's sharpest skills seem less useful than they should be (and hopefully will be with the change in Administration).