Political Advisor & Creator, Executive Producer, Co-Host of Showtime’s The Circus
Mark McKinnon: Biography at a Glance
- Mark McKinnon is a political advisor, reform advocate, columnist, and television producer best known as the creator and co-host of Showtime's Emmy-nominated documentary series The Circus.
- The highest rated unscripted program ever on Showtime, The Circus pulls back the curtain on American politics to provide an unbiased, inside look at the stories beyond the headlines.
- McKinnon was the chief media advisor for five winning presidential primary and general election campaigns and helped start No Labels, an organization dedicated to bringing our parties together to problem solve and heal the partisan divide in our country.
- He has worked for many causes, companies and candidates, including former President George W. Bush, Senator John McCain, the late former Governor Ann Richards and Bono.
- McKinnon has been a regular columnist for The Daily Beast, The London Daily Telegraph, and Vanity Fair, and was a consultant to the HBO show The Newsroom and Netflix’s House of Cards.
- Considered one of the few players behind every big decision, consensus, or roadblock in Washington, McKinnon offers his insightful opinion on the failures, obstacles, opportunities, and successes in the world of politics.
- His ability to dissect the toughest political issues with audiences from both sides of the aisle also uniquely positions him to discuss bipartisanship, leadership, and ethics.
Videos
Biography
Mark McKinnon is a political advisor, reform advocate, columnist, and television producer. He was the creator and co-host of Showtime's Emmy-nominated hit documentary series The Circus -- the longest- running, most-watched unscripted show in the history of the network which ran for eight seasons.
McKinnon has worked for many causes, companies, and candidates, including President George W. Bush, Senator John McCain, late Governor Ann Richards, and Bono. He was the chief media advisor for five winning presidential primary and general election campaigns. Dedicated to bipartisanship, McKinnon helped start No Labels, an organization dedicated to bringing our parties together to problem solve and heal the partisan divide in our country.
According to Broadcasting and Cable magazine, McKinnon is one of “a handful of players behind every big decision, consensus or roadblock in Washington . . . putting a unique, sometimes hidden stamp on the outcome of today’s debates.” Politics Daily writes: “He’s known for his originality in a field typified by copycats, a mellow personality in a world populated with high-strung brutes and ecumenical urges in a profession dominated by its unadulterated partisans.”
“McKinnon is evidence that principled centrism is not an oxymoron,” wrote John Avalon in a Daily Beast column about the 25 Best Centrist Pundits. “McKinnon piloted John McCain’s 2008 primary campaign to victory. But he announced in advance that if Barack Obama won the Democratic nomination; he would ride off into the sunset rather than participate in the negative attacks he knew would be required. This is unheard of in the world of modern politics, where partisanship trumps principle as a matter of course.”
President George W. Bush says of McKinnon, “I was really impressed by Mark’s creativity, and I was particularly impressed by his honesty.” Senator John McCain, in his typical straight-talk fashion, remarks, “He’s almost a genius.” And President Barack Obama calls McKinnon “a class act.”
McKinnon has been a regular columnist for The Daily Beast, The London Daily Telegraph, and Vanity Fair, and was a consultant to the HBO show The Newsroom and Netflix’s House of Cards.
McKinnon attended the University of Texas at Austin and served as editor of the award-winning university newspaper, The Daily Texan; he was arrested and jailed during his tenure in 1980 for defending the first amendment. He spent several years in Nashville working as a songwriter with Kris Kristofferson (and was wildly unsuccessful). McKinnon also is a two-time Ironman finisher. His quality of life is exceptionally enhanced by the enduring love and patience of his wife, Annie — whom he started dating before he had a driver’s license.
Topics
The 2024 Election
Inside the Circus: Pulling Back the Curtain on American Politics
Using fascinating historical ads and clips from U.S. politics, Mark McKinnon dissects the foundational elements of successful campaigns, lessons that apply to any company or organization seeking to communicate a clear and compelling message.
Our Bipartisan Future: How Do We Get There?
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FAQs
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Mark McKinnon booking information and availability
Check Mark McKinnon's speaking availability through CAA Speakers at speakers@caa.com. Book 3-6 months in advance for best date selection during peak seasons (September-November, March-May).
Availability factors:- Event date and location
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Include complete event details (date, location, audience size, budget) for fastest response times.
How far in advance should I book Mark McKinnon?
Book Mark McKinnon 3-6 months in advance for best availability, especially during peak speaking seasons. Early booking ensures better date selection and rate negotiations.
Recommended booking timeline:- 3-6 months: Optimal availability and pricing
- 2-3 months: Good availability
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- Under 30 days: Limited availability
Peak seasons: September-November and March-May book fastest. Contact CAA Speakers early for priority consideration.
How do I get Mark McKinnon pricing information?
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