This has been rumored to be in the works for months. It’s interesting that it’s happening now, so close to the election:

MSNBC is shaking up its prime-time programming lineup, removing the long-time host –- and one-time general manager of the network — Dan Abrams from his 9 p.m. program and replacing him with Rachel Maddow, who has emerged as a favored political commentator for the all-news cable channel.

Maddow’s first show will be on Sept. 8. No word at the moment whether she’ll continue hosting on Air America, but it is unlikely.

Abrams will stay with the network and return to his role as legal commentator and will substitute for hosts on NBC’s Today Show.