Salem Radio Network Reshapes Midday Lineup With Scott Jennings and Alex Marlow
Salem Radio Network has announced a significant change to its weekday programming lineup, naming CNN commentator Scott Jennings and Breitbart editor-in-chief Alex Marlow as the new hosts for its influential noon–3 p.m. Eastern Time block beginning January 5, 2026.
The midday slot is widely regarded as one of the most valuable hours in conservative talk radio, drawing a national audience during peak listening time. Under the new schedule, Marlow will host from noon to 1 p.m., followed by Jennings from 1 to 3 p.m.
Salem executives confirmed the changes as part of a broader strategy to refresh its on-air offerings while maintaining continuity with established audiences. The network also announced that The Charlie Kirk Show will continue in podcast form, co-hosted by Turning Point USA contributors Andrew Kolvet and Blake Neff.
A High-Profile Transition
The noon–3 p.m. block has long been a cornerstone of Salem’s national programming, known for shaping daily political conversation across its affiliate stations. Filling that slot places both Jennings and Marlow in highly visible roles within conservative media.
Scott Jennings, a frequent CNN contributor and longtime Republican strategist, described the opportunity as both an honor and a responsibility.
“These midday hours are some of the most important in talk radio,” Jennings said in a statement. “It’s a privilege to be part of a lineup that reaches millions of Americans during the heart of the day.”
Alex Marlow, who has served as editor-in-chief of Breitbart News since 2013, echoed that enthusiasm.
“I can’t wait to get started,” Marlow said. “This is an exciting chance to connect with listeners in a new way while continuing conversations that matter to them.”
Blending Media Backgrounds
The pairing of Jennings and Marlow reflects Salem’s interest in combining different media perspectives. Jennings brings experience from mainstream television commentary and political strategy, while Marlow comes from digital-first conservative publishing and long-form political analysis.
Industry observers note that this mix could broaden the appeal of the network’s midday programming, offering both debate-oriented discussion and issue-focused commentary.
Salem has not yet released detailed information about the specific format of each hour, but executives indicated that the shows will retain Salem’s core focus on politics, culture, and current events.
The Future of The Charlie Kirk Brand
While the radio lineup is changing, Salem emphasized that The Charlie Kirk Show will continue as a podcast, ensuring that existing audiences can still access the brand in a different format.
According to the network, the podcast will be co-hosted by Andrew Kolvet and Blake Neff, both of whom have previously contributed to the program. Salem described the move as part of an effort to adapt to evolving listener habits while preserving established content.
A Strategic Moment for Talk Radio
The announcement comes at a time when talk radio faces growing competition from podcasts, streaming platforms, and video-based political commentary. By appointing nationally recognized figures to its midday lineup, Salem appears to be reinforcing its commitment to live radio as a central part of its media strategy.
With the January 2026 launch date set, listeners and industry watchers alike will be paying close attention to how the new lineup performs—and how it reshapes the sound of conservative talk radio during one of its most influential hours.
