Outgoing NBC Universal CEO Jeff Zucker defends the network’s policy on political donations that led to Keith Olbermann’s suspension.

From TVNewser

In a wide-ranging conversation at the Paley Center for Media’s International Council this morning, outgoing NBC Universal CEO Jeff Zucker was interviewed by one of his employees, “CNBC “Mad Money” host Jim Cramer.

Cramer brought up Keith Olbermann‘s recent suspension from MSNBC, and asked whether news employees should be allowed to donate to political campaigns.

We have guidelines in place and you need to follow them. If you don’t there needs to be something done. That is what was done at MSNBC. With regard to whether those rules are right, or antiquated, I do think it is about transparency, it is about telling the viewer what you are doing.

And just to be fair to show that Olbermann wasn’t being singled out for his donations comes yesterday’s suspension of MSNBC anchor Joe Scarborough after it was revealed that he also make political donations to candidates.

One difference between OIbermann and Scarborough is that he gave money to friends and candidates that were seeking local or statewide offices in Florida nor did he  invite them as guests on his show as Keith did further crossing the line.

The debate will rage on but it does raise the question of how many other employees at MSNBC may have violated company policy but just haven’t been discovered yet.

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