Rise to Success: Career Highlights of Bob Beckel

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: March 25, 2025

From career breakthroughs to professional milestones, explore how Bob Beckel made an impact.

Bob Beckel was an American political analyst, pundit, and operative, registered as a Democrat. He gained prominence as an original co-host on Fox News' "The Five" from 2011 until his initial departure in 2015. After a brief stint with CNN, he rejoined Fox News in 2017, resuming his role on "The Five." However, his return was short-lived, as he was terminated by Fox News in May 2017 following accusations of making a racist remark to a colleague. His career was marked by his outspoken political commentary and his presence in the media landscape.

Sections (2)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements

1968: Worked for Robert F. Kennedy's Presidential Campaign

In 1968, Bob Beckel worked for Robert F. Kennedy's presidential campaign.

1971: Peace Corps Volunteer

In 1971, after college, Bob Beckel served in the Philippines as a Peace Corps volunteer.

1972: Continued Peace Corps Service

In 1972, Bob Beckel continued his service as a Peace Corps volunteer in the Philippines.

1977: Joined the United States Department of State

In 1977, Bob Beckel joined the United States Department of State as deputy assistant secretary of state for congressional relations, becoming the youngest deputy assistant secretary of state in the Carter administration.

1984: Campaign Manager for Walter Mondale's Presidential Campaign

In 1984, Bob Beckel was the campaign manager for Walter Mondale's presidential campaign, where he became known for using the Wendy's slogan "Where's the beef?" against Gary Hart.

1984: Formed Bob Beckel & Associates

In late 1984, Bob Beckel formed the consulting firm Bob Beckel & Associates, or BBA.

1985: Beckel-Cowan Formed

In 1985, Bob Beckel's lobbying firm Bob Beckel & Associates was succeeded by Beckel-Cowan.

2000: Called on Florida Electors to Overturn Election Results

In 2000, Bob Beckel called on Florida electors to overturn George W. Bush's slim victory over Al Gore, leading to his business partners leaving his firm and its subsequent breakup.

2002: Managed Alan Blinken's Campaign

In 2002, Bob Beckel managed the campaign of Alan Blinken, the Democratic nominee for United States Senate in Idaho, until he resigned after it became public that he was a witness and victim in an extortion attempt by a prostitute.

2005: Columnist for USA Today

From 2005, Bob Beckel was a columnist for USA Today, writing articles with Cal Thomas.

2011: Became Analyst and Commentator on Fox News

In 2011, Bob Beckel, a registered Democrat, began working as an analyst and commentator on Fox News.

June 2015: Fox Announces Beckel's Departure

In June 2015, Fox announced that Bob Beckel had left the program 'The Five' due to personal issues.

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October 2015: Hired by CNN

In October 2015, Bob Beckel was hired by CNN to offer commentary on the 2016 election, a move that drew criticism due to his controversial views.

2015: Release from The Five

In 2015, Bob Beckel was released from his position as a co-host on 'The Five' after being absent for several months due to back surgery.

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2015: End of Columnist Role at USA Today

In 2015, Bob Beckel's tenure as a columnist for USA Today ended.

2016: Comments on the 2016 Election

In 2016, Bob Beckel commented on Hillary Clinton's "basket of deplorables" remark, questioned Corey Lewandowski's stance on Trump, and predicted Trump's loss after the release of the Access Hollywood tape.