Olbermann to Be Back on the Air Tuesday

Nov. 7, 2010— -- Keith Olbermann can go back on the air Tuesday, after what his MSNBC boss decided was an "appropriate punishment" for making contributions to a trio of Democrats.

MSNBC President Phil Griffin made the announcement late today that Olbermann would be allowed to return to "Countdown," the cable channel's most popular program.

"After several days of deliberation and discussion, I have determined that suspending Keith through and including Monday night's program is an appropriate punishment for his violation of our policy," Griffin said in a brief statement. "We look forward to having him back on the air Tuesday night."

Olbermann, who was suspended Friday after it was revealed that he contributed to the campaigns of three Democratic candidates, took to the web earlier today to update and thank supporters.

Olbermann posted the following message this afternoon:

"Greetings From Exile! A quick, overwhelmed, stunned THANK YOU for support that feels like a global hug & obviously left me tweetless XO."

Politico reported Friday that Olbermann contributed to the candidates in the run-up to Tuesday's midterm elections, making a donation to Arizona Rep. Raul Grijalva on the same day he appeared on the cable news show.

In a statement announcing the suspension, MSNBC said its ethics policy bans journalists from making political contributions.

Olbermann, perhaps the cable network's most famous face, is known as an outspoken liberal commenter. As one of the network's highest-paid personalities, he is central to the network's "Lean Forward" campaign, a rebranding effort promoting progressive points of view. Thomas Roberts anchored "Countdown" on Friday night.

"I became aware of Keith's political contributions late last night," Griffin said in a statement released Friday. "Mindful of NBC News policy and standards, I have suspended him indefinitely without pay."