NBC’s Todd to cover Obama

NBC Political Director Chuck Todd, who was considered a contender to succeed Tim Russert as moderator of “Meet the Press,” has been given another plum assignment: chief White House correspondent.

Todd, who will continue serving as NBC’s political director, will be the network’s lead correspondent covering the Obama administration, the network announced Thursday. He will be joined on the beat by Savannah Guthrie.

Todd replaces David Gregory, who was named earlier this month as the moderator of “Meet the Press.” Gregory drew strong viewership during his first week leading the program, attracting an average of 4.75 million viewers last Sunday. CBS’ “Face the Nation” placed second with 3.47 million.

-- Matea Gold