NEW YORK (AP) CNN said Kaitlan Collins will host a new hourlong show at the center of the prime-time lineup, filling a slot left vacant since the firing of Chris Cuomo and as the networks ratings are at a low ebb.

Collins will begin regularly hosting the 9 p.m. Eastern show next month, the network said Wednesday, making the announcement during a Warner Discovery sales presentation to advertisers.

The ex-White House correspondent moderated CNNs town hall with former President Donald Trump last week, but was generally held blameless for criticism the event received.

She is a smart and gifted journalist who weve all seen hold lawmakers and newsmakers accountable, CNN Chairman Chris Licht said in a memo to staff members. She pushes politicians off their talking points, gets real answers and as everyone whos worked with her knows breaks a lot of news.