In what some insiders are calling a “slow-motion disaster,” former White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki’s MSNBC show is reportedly facing a crisis of confidence. Once hailed as a potential breakout hit due to Psaki’s high-profile political background and media-savvy demeanor, the program has instead become a ratings disappointment—and some claim it could jeopardize the broader health of the liberal-leaning cable news network.

Since launching her show, Inside with Jen Psaki, the former Biden administration spokesperson has struggled to capture a consistent audience. Recent Nielsen ratings reportedly show a steady decline in viewership, with some weeks registering numbers that trail far behind MSNBC’s more established programs and even some of its competitors on CNN and Fox News. The numbers, insiders say, are “concerning,” particularly given the investment made into branding and promoting the show.

“Executives expected her to be the next big star in political commentary,” said one industry insider speaking on condition of anonymity. “But what they got instead is a lukewarm performance, a show that doesn’t stand out, and a host who seems better suited to press briefings than prime-time analysis.”

The show was positioned to capitalize on Psaki’s familiarity with the news cycle and her ability to shape narratives. As former White House Press Secretary, she was known for her sharp retorts and calm command of complex issues. But in the world of television, where ratings reign supreme, those skills haven’t translated into the magnetic on-screen presence needed to build a loyal viewership base.

Critics argue that Psaki’s tone and approach may be too scripted and cautious for an audience that craves bold commentary and memorable moments. Others have pointed to the show’s format, which mixes interviews with deep dives into policy issues, as overly dry or lacking the dynamism needed to compete with more sensational offerings on cable news.

“Let’s be honest—she’s not Rachel Maddow,” said one former MSNBC producer. “You can’t just stick a government official in front of a camera and expect them to become a television personality overnight. It takes charisma, timing, and a feel for the medium. Right now, Psaki’s missing that.”

The implications for MSNBC are more than cosmetic. The network, already struggling with broader viewership erosion as audiences migrate to digital platforms, has to fight for relevance in a fragmented media environment. Betting big on Psaki was supposed to be part of its strategy to appeal to a younger, more politically engaged audience, especially those sympathetic to the Biden administration’s message. But instead of serving as a ratings magnet, her program has become a liability—raising uncomfortable questions about the network’s direction.

Despite the negative press, some insiders urge patience. They argue that it takes time to build a loyal audience and that Psaki is still adjusting to a role very different from her government career. “There’s still potential here,” said a network source. “She’s intelligent, connected, and capable of growing into the role. But we can’t deny that it’s not working yet—and that’s a problem.”

Meanwhile, social media has added fuel to the fire. Critics on both ends of the political spectrum have taken aim at Psaki’s performance, with some accusing her of being too aligned with the Democratic Party to offer honest analysis, and others claiming she lacks the passion or bite needed for hard-hitting political commentary. Memes mocking her “vanilla delivery” and calling the show “Inside the Echo Chamber” have gone viral.

Whether this storm passes or turns into a full-blown catastrophe remains to be seen. What is clear, however, is that MSNBC is facing a critical moment. Psaki’s show was intended to lead a new era for the network—but instead, it may now represent everything that’s going wrong in traditional television news: declining ratings, misplaced bets, and the fading influence of familiar political faces.

For Jen Psaki, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Either she reinvents her show, sharpens her voice, and finds a way to connect with audiences—or she could end up as a high-profile casualty in an increasingly cutthroat media landscape.

The coming months will be pivotal. One thing is certain: if the current trajectory continues, it won’t just be Psaki’s reputation on the line—it could be MSNBC’s future as well.