Lawrence O'Donnell brings his extraordinary background in politics, entertainment and news as host of the "The Last Word with Lawrence O'Donnell" on MSNBC.

He was an MSNBC political analyst since the network's launch in 1996 and had previously appeared as a frequent guest host on MSNBC's primetime programs, weighing in on the headlines and what's behind them.

Prior to joining MSNBC, O'Donnell was an Emmy Award-winning executive producer and writer for the NBC series "The West Wing," where he brought real life experience from the world of politics.

His political background includes serving as Senior Advisor to Sen. Daniel Patrick Moynihan, Chief of Staff to the Senate Committee on the Environment and Public Works, and Chief of Staff of the Senate Finance Committee.

A writer prior to entering politics and government, O'Donnell was a political columnist for New York magazine and has written essays and articles for several publications including The New York Times, Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, People, Spy, and Boston Magazine. He is also the author of the book Deadly Force.

O'Donnell has also appeared on NBC News' "Nightly News," "Today," "Good Morning America," "Nightline," "Charlie Rose," and several other programs.

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