Kasie Hunt's Revolutionary Approach to Combat Second Screen Distractions at CNN

Kasie Hunt, the political powerhouse known for her unparalleled coverage on CNN, is making waves in a new arena - keeping viewers glued to their TV screens rather than reaching for their smartphones. In an attempt to compete with the rapid-fire pace of digital media, the network is experimenting with innovative strategies, and Hunt's 'text chain' feature is leading the charge. Each afternoon on "The Arena," Hunt facilitates engaging discussions about Washington's hottest topics. But there's an unusual addition to the usual on-screen chatter - a live text commentary from CNN reporters, experts, and contributors not participating in the studio discussions. This dual conversation mirrors the real-time interactions one might find on their phone. "I believe it retains viewers," explains Hunt during a recent interview. "It offers professional journalism and expert insights as opposed to the free-for-all exchanges often found on social media." CNN is working tirelessly to maintain viewer attention amidst the digital age, where the second screen reigns supreme. The network has been testing this text-chain graphics not only in political discussions but also during live news events like President Trump's White House Correspondents' Dinner speech or Supreme Court oral arguments. Journalists such as John Berman, Betsy Klein, and Brian Stelter have joined the live analysis section on screen, offering real-time commentary during significant events. The potential for this format extends beyond political coverage. Abigail Crutchfield, CNN's Senior Vice President of Washington and Special Events Programming, envisions its use in red carpet events or fashion shows. "We are giving our subscribers an opportunity to access the kind of information they usually find on other screens," she says. "Now, we can curate who these experts are." Subscribers to CNN's 'All Access' service can opt for a feed of text contributions that overlay linear shows in some cases. The race to out-tweet the competition is heating up, argues Jaime Spencer, Chief Operating Officer of Magid, a consultancy advising TV stations and media companies. "There is certainly an engagement challenge with traditional platforms," he notes, citing the growing appeal of individual creators offering newsletters and video podcasts. Younger viewers, who CNN aims to captivate, are less likely to rely on traditional sources for breaking news. According to a 2026 Pew Research Center survey, approximately 31% of adults under 30 indicated they turned to social media first for breaking news, while only 6% of Americans 65 and older said the same. Other networks have followed suit with innovative approaches. Fox News Channel's Will Cain embraces a more casual style during his afternoon hour, speaking into a large radio microphone – reminiscent of video podcasters – while MS NOW expands its use of taped video podcast segments from Crooked Media and other providers on weekend evenings. CNN has even dabbled in real-time experimentation, placing host Anderson Cooper in less formal environments and, at times, without a tie. However, these innovations might strike a chord with viewers who have seen similar displays before. The scrolling text across the screen echoes programs like MTV's "TRL," where audience messages were once displayed, or VH-1's "Pop-Up Video." The text chain aims to emulate something Hunt has long utilized for her reporting. "I run an email on big nights when I'm reporting on site," she says. "I would constantly communicate with sources and share their insights." Executives at CNN liked the idea and saw its potential for delivering more information to viewers. "She has numerous sources who can't be in studio every day," notes Crutchfield. "How do we bring that to the flow?" Although there are no hard data, producers believe the text chain keeps viewers focused on the linear screen longer and provides additional analysis for those watching without audio. For viewers seeking deeper context than a chyron or banner could offer, it serves as an invaluable resource. The introduction of this feature creates new responsibilities behind the scenes. On "The Arena," producers now book guests for the text chain each day, usually from a group of reporters, correspondents, and contributors who would take part in traditional show discussions at various times. "I'm a big believer that viewers connect with people they see often," says Hunt, noting that text contributors often receive specific feedback. "They get direct responses when they are on 'text chain,' as opposed to when they sit in the studio and hear, 'Oh, I saw you on TV.' I think many people are surprised by the level of reaction they receive." There are some limitations. Viewers shouldn't expect the freewheeling commentary and opinion that characterizes online chatter. "This is different from social media or viewer comments," explains Crutchfield. "We are focusing on expert context and analysis rather than offering unfiltered opinions." A gatekeeper monitors the process in the studio, ensuring the information is accurate, relevant, and appropriate. While there are no immediate plans to deploy this text chain across all CNN programs, executives see potential for expansion, especially during live coverage. When Hunt's show broadcast an important Capitol Hill hearing for most of its hour, it relied on her analysis via texts to present the event without interruption. At the start of the next hour, they decided against continuing the technique, viewing it as specific to Hunt's show. In the future, producers might maintain this approach during live coverage. The text chain is another step in CNN's quest to compete effectively against a barrage of digital competitors. "I think people are hungry for more context," says Crutchfield. "That's why so many turn to social media during events or speeches. The use of this new analysis tool will evolve, and these are just the beginning stages."