Rick Klein Named ABC News Washington Bureau Chief

variety.com:

Brian Steinberg Senior TV Editor Rick Klein, a veteran of wrangling politicians and newsmakers, has been named ABC News‘ next Washington Bureau chief, a move that shows the Disney news operation working to fill some notable holes among its senior staff. “As a seasoned and highly respected journalist, Rick is uniquely qualified to lead our Washington bureau at such a pivotal moment in our nation’s history,” said Debra OConnell, the Disney executive who oversees both ABC News and ABC’s local stations, in a prepared statement. “His years of guiding our coverage of the biggest political news events, including five presidential elections, and providing critical analysis across ABC News’ programs and platforms are invaluable to our exceptional team and viewers.” Klein will report to OConnell until a new president of ABC News is named.

The Washington Bureau chief role at ABC News has been empty since the April exit of Jonathan Greenberger, a close ally of anchor George Stephanopoulos who left to become an executive vice president at Politico.

Klein, who joined ABC News in 2007, will oversee bureau operations and manage all news teams based in Washington and oversee all political coverage, including ABC News’ Sunday morning public affairs program, “This Week with George Stephanopoulos.” “I have grown up professionally working with the legendary journalists of ABC News in Washington,” Klein said in a statement. “I’m honored to step into the role of bureau chief at this critical time and for the chance to work more closely with my colleagues in Washington and beyond.