MPR Names Clay Masters Host Of ‘All Things Considered.’

Minnesota Public Radio (MPR) has tapped politics correspondent Clay Masters as the new host of “All Things Considered,” beginning Sept. 29. He succeeds longtime host Tom Crann, who stepped away this spring after more than 20 years to join “YourClassical MPR.”

Masters, who joined MPR News in January 2024, has reported on both state and national politics, covering two legislative sessions as well as major national news events, including Gov. Tim Walz’s vice-presidential nomination. Before coming to Minnesota, the Nebraska native spent 12 years at Iowa Public Radio, where he hosted “Morning Edition” for a decade and was NPR’s go-to reporter on the ground for three consecutive Iowa caucuses.

MPR News Program Director Stephanie Curtis says Masters was the clear choice to carry the program forward. “Clay has decades of experience reporting on rural issues, city issues, reporting for National Public Radio about the presidential candidates, telling the stories of people from across the political spectrum,” she said. “His fact-based approach, curiosity, and ability to connect with listeners reflect the values our audience trusts.”

Masters said stepping into the role holds special significance for him. “All Things Considered was the first public radio show I regularly tuned into,” he said. “Especially at a time when public media is having a challenging moment with the elimination of the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, it’s not lost on me how big of a role this is. I’m excited.”

During his career, Masters has earned numerous awards, including a regional Edward R. Murrow Award for the podcast “Caucus Land.” He began his public media journey at Nebraska Public Media and is a University of Nebraska-Lincoln graduate.