**Remembrance: CNBC's Squawk Box Founder Mark Haines Dies at 65**
By James Poniewozik | @poniewozik | May 25, 2011 | +Tweet
CNBC has just released the sudden and saddening news that Mark Haines, the founding anchor of the channel’s flagship program *Squawk Box*, passed away last night. Over the years, the channel has launched many business-news stars, but Haines was as close as anyone to being its defining face and voice. Like many financial laymen, I’m sure I only tune into business-news TV occasionally—when there’s a major market movement, when a bank collapses, etc.—but when I think of CNBC, Haines’ presence is probably what first comes to mind.
Haines was straightforward, direct, good-humored, and quick to call out nonsense. As with much of CNBC, viewers can debate whether his coverage and shows were too cozy with business leaders or whether they missed warning signs leading up to the 2008 financial crisis. However, Haines was consistently steady, unpretentious, and professional, whether covering earnings reports, a market crisis, or the 9/11 terrorist attacks.
He also likely came as close as anyone to embodying what CNBC is at its best—combining knowledge with a distinctive voice. He asked blunt questions and, occasionally, was willing to use that voice to dismiss empty talk—as seen in the clip above, where he shuts down a political spokeswoman at the Republican National Convention for her spin on taxes: "I’m sorry, but I find that one-sided crap insulting." (Those seeking equal time can watch Barney Frank cutting off a tough interview with Haines here.) He may not have always made his interview subjects love him, but Mark Haines was all business.
Rest in peace.
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