Symone D. Sanders Townsend

Symone Sanders is a prominent political strategist and television host, currently serving as a weekend host on MSNBC. She joined the network in January 2022 after a notable career in political communications, including roles as a senior advisor and chief spokesperson for Vice President Kamala Harris and as a key figure in President Joe Biden's 2020 campaign.

Early Career and Education

• Background: Born and raised in Nebraska, Sanders gained significant recognition in the political arena during the 2016 presidential campaign of Senator Bernie Sanders, where she served as the national press secretary. At just 25 years old, she became the youngest presidential press secretary on record and was featured in Rolling Stone's list of "16 Young Americans Shaping the 2016 Election" .13
• Education: She holds a Bachelor of Business Administration (B.B.A.) in Management from Creighton University, which she attended from 2008 to 2013 .3

Political Roles

• Biden Campaign: After her work with Bernie Sanders, she transitioned to serve as a senior advisor for Biden's presidential campaign, where her role was pivotal in shaping communications strategies .24
• White House: Following Biden's election, Sanders was appointed as Deputy Assistant to the President and Senior Advisor to Vice President Harris, making her the first Black woman to serve in this capacity .45 She left this position amid a staffing turnover at the White House in late 2021 .2

Media Career

• MSNBC Host: At MSNBC, Sanders hosts a weekend program titled "SYMONE," where she discusses current events and political issues. She aims to provide critical insights into the Biden administration while engaging with various topics beyond politics .36 Her approach is characterized by a commitment to honesty and transparency regarding governmental operations .2

Publications and Recognition

• Authorship: In addition to her political work, Sanders authored a book titled No, You Shut Up: Speaking Truth to Power and Reclaiming America, published when she was 29 years old .34
• Awards: Throughout her career, she has received several accolades, including recognition in the Midlands Business Journal's "40 Under 40" list and Fusion's "30 Under 30" .3

Symone Sanders continues to be an influential voice in American politics and media, leveraging her extensive experience to engage audiences on pressing national issues.