Chuck Todd named NBC’s chief White House correspondent

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NBC political director Chuck Todd, who was considered a contender to succeed Tim Russert as moderator of “Meet the Press,” has been given another plum assignment: chief White House correspondent.

Todd, who will continue to serve as NBC’s political director, will be the network’s lead correspondent covering the Obama administration, the network announced today. He will be joined on the beat by correspondent Savannah Guthrie.

“Chuck truly made his mark in the 2008 presidential election season where he offered unmatched political analysis,” NBC News President Steve Capus said in a statement. “His objective, smart, real reporting has been honed through the years in Washington and makes him uniquely qualified to lead our White House coverage team.”

Todd replaces David Gregory, who was named earlier this month as the newest moderator of “Meet the Press.” Todd will also make frequent appearances on the Sunday show as contributing editor, NBC announced today.

Gregory drew strong viewership during his first week leading the program, attracting an average of 4.75 million viewers last Sunday. CBS’ ‘Face the Nation’ placed second with 3.47 million, while ABC’s ‘This Week’ drew 3.2 million and ‘Fox News Sunday’ delivered 1.46 million.

— Matea Gold