Something we all knew all along. MSNBC Chief Phil Griffin: Our Network Is âNot The Placeâ For Breaking News Over the last several months, it has become pretty clear that when it comes to ratings, MSNBC struggles during breaking news events, while CNN and Fox both receive boosts. In an interview with the New York Times this morning, MSNBC chief Phil Griffin essentially conceded the âbreaking newsâ mantle to the other networks, telling viewers that his network is not focused on that sort of coverage. In what seems like a stunning admission, Griffin said: âWeâre not the place for that,â he said of breaking news. âOur brand is not that.â Instead, he explained, MSNBCâs bread and butter is progressive political talk and analysis.