[John Jorsett]

CNN SHAKEUP: CARVILLE, BEGALA HIRED FOR 'CROSSFIRE', BILL PRESS OUT; SHOW EXPANDS TO AN HOUR, BEFORE STUDIO AUDIENCE

**Exclusive**

CNN suits are set to drastically makeover one of the network's top performers: CROSSFIRE will soon feature Clinton stars James Carville and Paul Begala from the left, the DRUDGE REPORT has learned.

Carville will host the show 1 out of 4 weeks, with Begala picking up the rest, according to sources.

Robert Novak and Tucker Carlson have both committed to continue on the right as the show expands to an hour-long format. Executives hope to move the show out of the studio to an auditorium at George Washington University.

[John Jorsett]

I guess they haven't lost enough audience yet and need to finish the network off as quickly as possible.

[alloysteel]

There is not much hope for Tucker Carlson, but Robert Novak is really better than having to endure the unending smarm from Begala.

[John Jorsett]

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CNN top Walter Isaacson is said to be the mastermind behind the CROSSFIRE makeover, fighting hard to sign Carville.

"Lots of money for James, and not much work," said a source close to the man affectional known as the 'Ragin' Cajun'.

Carville will be paid an anni of upper-six figures.

Host Bill Press is sent to the showers and becomes a 'CNN contributor'.

The CROSSFIRE shakeup is a direct challenge to CNBCMSNBC's HARDBALL.

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[soycd]

Sounds like teddy turner is back in charge.

[america-rules]

Fox doubles viewership lead over CNN in February ratings

[jonathonandjennifer]

James Carville and Paul Begala -vs.-Tucker Carlson;
two junk yard dogs -vs.- a poodle.
(and I realize "junk yard dog" is being kind to Carville).