On this Election Day, citizens nationwide are casting their votes to determine the next president, choosing between Republican candidate Donald Trump and Democratic contender Kamala Harris.

Among those covering the election live and providing real-time analysis is John King, who will spearhead CNN’s election reporting. His use of the “magic wall” and his playful use of the word “fun” captured the attention of viewers and became the topic of numerous memes during the previous election cycle.

This election cycle, King revealed in an interview with YSL News that he plans to swap out “fun” for terms like “fascinating” or “challenging,” acknowledging that viewers may not find close races enjoyable.

Here’s what you should know about the CNN anchor and Chief National Correspondent.

Who is John King? Current Role and Show

John King serves as CNN’s Chief National Correspondent alongside his role as an anchor, playing a crucial part in the network’s coverage of American politics and government, according to his CNN biography.

Previously, he hosted “Inside Politics,” stepping down in April 2023 to focus on understanding voters in key battleground states leading up to the 2024 presidential election. In a recent chat with YSL News, King mentioned he has spent the last 15 months traveling across the U.S. to gather insights on voter opinions and plans to keep this up until the week before the election.

On Election Day, King will utilize his renowned “magic wall” to report the election results. He describes it as the “most powerful information tool” he has ever used, noting it allows him to access information quickly and present it interactively to viewers.

“It’s an intriguing tool, and with an outstanding team, we strive to enhance its functionality with every election cycle,” King stated.

Having covered elections for nearly four decades, King has observed that viewers appreciate the overall experience of elections, and the “magic wall” enables him to transport them to various locations, providing insight into the local voting processes.

John King’s Education and Background

A native of Boston, King received his bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Rhode Island. He has also been awarded honorary doctorate degrees from URI, American University, and Hobart and William Smith Colleges.

Before joining CNN in May 1997, King worked at the Associated Press for 12 years, with the last six years serving as its chief political correspondent. He has reported from all 50 state and over 70 countries throughout his career.

Additional Information about John King

King is a father of three, including two children—a son and daughter—from his first marriage with Jean Makie, and one son with his current wife, fellow CNN anchor Dana Bash. They married in May 2008 and welcomed their son Jonah in June 2011 but separated in March 2012.

This article has been updated to correct a typo.