Spitzer, Parker to host new CNN program

NEW YORK, June 23 (UPI) -- CNN says it plans to start up a new U.S. nightly news and events discussion program with Eliot Spitzer and Kathleen Parker serving as hosts.

Spitzer is a former New York governor who resigned in 2008 after a sex scandal and Parker is a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist.

They are to star in a "spirited, nightly roundtable discussion program," it was announced Wednesday by Jon Klein, president of CNN/U.S.

Set to debut this fall, the new show is to air weeknights at 8 p.m. Eastern time.

"Other cable news channels force-feed viewers one narrow, predictable point of view; in contrast, CNN will be offering a lively roundup of all the best ideas -- presented by two of the most intelligent and outspoken figures in the country," Klein said in a statement. "Eliot and Kathleen are beholden to no vested interest -- in fact, quite the opposite: they are renowned for taking on the most powerful targets and most important causes."

"As a veteran print journalist, I am appropriately respectful of the challenges posed by the medium," added Parker. "But I'm thrilled by the opportunity to discuss the issues that matter to me -- and that aren't heard often enough on television -- in a conversation with one of the nation's most brilliant, fearless and original thinkers. With Eliot Spitzer as my co-host, Wall Street and Main Street will finally meet. It can't possibly be boring."

"Kathleen is an extraordinary intellect whose sharp observations and wit are certain to resonate with viewers," said Spitzer. "I look forward to working alongside her in a discussion that will inform, challenge, and entertain. I am grateful to CNN for the opportunity to co-host a show that will advance the discussion of the defining issues of our time."