Every few years, Steve Kornacki finds himself unexpectedly in the spotlight. Comedian Leslie Jones has dubbed him “the sexiest nerd on TV,” and People magazine has agreed. His signature look – glasses, white dress shirt, tie, and khaki or dark pants – has even become a popular Halloween costume among some in Washington.
Despite his newfound fame, Kornacki remains humble, unsure of the attention he receives. As a national political correspondent for NBC News, he captivates audiences during election seasons with his skillful use of a large touch screen to analyze electoral maps and polling data.
During one particularly grueling stretch in November, Kornacki spent a staggering 17 hours on air. But that was nothing compared to the marathon coverage of the 2020 election, where he managed only a total of 10 hours of sleep for the entire week.
Following his exhausting election coverage, NBC Sports invited Kornacki to bring his data analysis skills to “Football Night in America,” the network’s Sunday night studio show. A longtime fan of the New England Patriots and Boston Celtics, Kornacki eagerly accepted the opportunity to break down the NFL playoff picture on national television.
Just like on election night, Kornacki’s football segments dissect the intricate paths to victory for NFL teams vying for playoff spots. He navigates through complex scenarios, like the Los Angeles Rams clinching their division due to a strength of victory tiebreaker.
Kornacki’s meticulous preparation includes studying demographic data in key battleground states and counties. Through spreadsheets and maps, he memorizes vital information to provide viewers with insightful analysis on voting patterns and trends.
Viewers connected with Kornacki during the 2020 election because they were all collectively navigating the flood of information together. His ability to translate complex data into digestible insights resonated with audiences, creating a shared experience.
NBC anchor Kristen Welker praised Kornacki for holding up a mirror to the country through his analysis, offering viewers a glimpse of where the nation stands and where it’s headed. His ability to demystify complex data and trends has made him a trusted figure in political and sports analysis.
Despite the apparent divide between political enthusiasts and sports fans, both groups share a passion for engaging television. Kornacki’s expertise in breaking down data and probabilities applies seamlessly to both realms, drawing parallels between electoral campaigns and sporting contests.
In addition to his work on football analysis, Kornacki has also contributed insights on various sports events like the Olympics and the Kentucky Derby. While sports offer a welcome diversion, Kornacki’s primary focus remains on his political reporting, particularly during pivotal moments like the presidential election.
