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Political Journalist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Political Reporter

Chicago, IL · On-site

$60 - $72/hr

This role requires a journalist who thrives on breaking news, holds public officials accountable ... Report, write, and deliver compelling political stories for daily newscasts and digital platforms

This role requires a journalist who thrives on breaking news, holds public officials accountable ... Report, write, and deliver compelling political stories for daily newscasts and digital platforms

This role requires a journalist who thrives on breaking news, holds public officials accountable ... Report, write, and deliver compelling political stories for daily newscasts and digital platforms

Familiarity with business and political terminology and concepts RESPONSIBILITIES * Investigate and ... journalistic standards. * Conduct on-camera interviews with political leaders, industry experts ...

Familiarity with business and political terminology and concepts RESPONSIBILITIES * Investigate and ... journalistic standards. * Conduct on-camera interviews with political leaders, industry experts ...

... attendance at political, news, sports, artistic, social or other functions * Pitches stories to ... Bachelor's degree in Broadcast Journalism, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of ...

... attendance at political, news, sports, artistic, social or other functions * Pitches stories to ... Bachelor's degree in Broadcast Journalism, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of ...

The Multimedia Journalist produces, reports, shoots, writes, voices, edits and feeds news ... attendance at political, news, sports, artistic, social or other functions * Pitches stories to ...

... attendance at political, news, sports, artistic, social or other functions * Pitches stories to ... Bachelor's degree in Broadcast Journalism, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of ...

The Multimedia Journalist produces, reports, shoots, writes, voices, edits and feeds news ... attendance at political, news, sports, artistic, social or other functions * Pitches stories to ...

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Political Journalist information

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$30K

$61K

$131K

How much do political journalist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for political journalist in the United States is $60,979.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36,000.00 and $79,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How can I become a political journalist?

To become a political journalist, you typically need a bachelor's degree in journalism, political science, or a related field. Gaining experience through internships, developing strong writing and research skills, and building a network in media organizations are essential steps in entering the profession.

How much do political journalists get paid?

Political journalists' salaries vary based on experience, location, and employer, but the median annual wage in the journalism field is around $45,000 to $70,000. Experienced political reporters working for major outlets can earn over $100,000 annually, especially with additional skills in multimedia and investigative reporting.

What are the most common challenges political journalists face when reporting on sensitive or rapidly developing stories?

Political journalists often encounter challenges such as verifying information quickly amid fast-paced news cycles and managing potential bias while covering sensitive or polarized topics. Balancing the need for speed with accuracy is crucial, as misinformation can easily spread. Additionally, building and maintaining reliable sources, handling public scrutiny, and ensuring personal safety—especially when reporting on controversial issues—are all significant aspects of the role. Collaboration with editors and other reporters is essential to navigate these challenges and maintain journalistic integrity.

What degree do you need to be a political journalist?

A political journalist typically holds a bachelor's degree in journalism, political science, communications, or a related field. Strong writing, research skills, and knowledge of current events are essential, and some positions may prefer or require a master's degree or specialized training.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Political Journalist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Political Journalist, you need excellent writing, research, and analytical skills, usually supported by a degree in journalism or communications. Familiarity with digital publishing platforms, social media tools, and data analysis software is often required. Strong interpersonal skills, critical thinking, and the ability to work under tight deadlines set standout professionals apart. These abilities are crucial for accurately informing the public, maintaining credibility, and navigating the fast-paced world of political news.

What is the difference between Political Journalist vs Political Commentator?

AspectPolitical JournalistPolitical Commentator
CredentialsJournalism degree, reporting experienceExpertise in politics, media presence
Work EnvironmentNews outlets, newspapers, online mediaTV, radio, online platforms
Employer & IndustryMedia organizations, news agenciesMedia outlets, political shows
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding news reporting rolesAnalyzing political opinions & analysis

Political journalists focus on reporting news objectively, gathering facts, and delivering unbiased stories. Political commentators provide analysis, opinions, and insights on political events. While both roles involve politics and media, journalists prioritize factual reporting, whereas commentators emphasize interpretation and opinion.

What jobs can you get with political communications?

A political communications degree or experience can lead to roles such as political analyst, press secretary, communications director, public relations specialist, or campaign manager. These jobs typically require strong writing, media skills, and understanding of political processes and strategies.

What does a political journalist do?

A political journalist researches, investigates, and reports on political events, policies, elections, and public affairs. They cover government activities, interview politicians and experts, and write articles or produce multimedia content for news outlets. Their work helps inform the public about political developments and holds public officials accountable. Political journalists often work in fast-paced environments and need to be up-to-date with current events and political trends.
More about Political Journalist jobs
What cities are hiring for Political Journalist jobs? Cities with the most Political Journalist job openings:
What states have the most Political Journalist jobs? States with the most job openings for Political Journalist jobs include:
Infographic showing various Political Journalist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% As Needed, 17% Full Time, 74% Part Time, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 19% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 80% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,979 per year, or $29.3 per hour.
Political Correspondent, North Carolina

Political Correspondent, North Carolina

Courier Newsroom, Inc.

Raleigh, NC • On-site

$65K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

Political Correspondent, North Carolina - Cardinal & Pine
Remote (North Carolina-based) | Full-Time | $65k - $80k
Who We Are
COURIER Newsroom is committed to building an inclusive workplace that values diverse perspectives and lived experiences. We strongly encourage women, people of color, individuals with disabilities, LGBTQ+ candidates, and those from all backgrounds to apply. As an equal opportunity employer, we strive to break down barriers and ensure every team member feels seen, heard, and supported.
Courier Newsroom empowers individuals and communities through local reporting that helps people understand-and act on-the issues shaping their lives. Through original reporting, human-focused storytelling, and values-aligned audience engagement, we reach people where they already are and build trust at the local level.
We are presently looking for a North Carolina Political Correspondent-someone who is an audience-savvy storyteller, can break news, contextualize politics for everyday readers, and reach people through the formats they prefer (email, social, video, or a hybrid).
Additionally, a reliable form of transportation is required to ensure you're able to cover stories where they happen. Either a personal vehicle or reliable public transportation are ok!
Summary of the Role
You will be the lead political correspondent for Courier Newsroom in North Carolina. You will produce sharp, accessible political journalism that's delivered in multiple formats such as on-camera videos, skimmable web graphics, and stories optimized for email.
You will:
  • Break and explain local and state political news
  • Develop and distribute ongoing media content tailored to a specific audience
  • Build a personal, trusted presence across social platforms and in inboxes
  • Use audience insights, data, and experimentation to refine your content and reporting approach

This is a highly entrepreneurial role for someone excited to reach new audiences underserved by legacy media and help strengthen civic engagement in North Carolina.
Key Responsibilities
Political Reporting & Coverage
  • Report, write, and produce clear, compelling political journalism rooted in local communities.
  • Break news and deliver fast-turnaround coverage on political developments, legislation, elections, and policy impacts.
  • Build and maintain a strong network of on-the-ground sources: lawmakers, organizers, community leaders, campaign staff, and advocates.
  • Provide additional state-level political coverage for the newsroom as needed.

Multimedia & Social Content
  • Create short-form video content, including on-camera explainers, TikTok/Instagram videos, or voice-overs (comfort producing presenter-led videos required)
  • Collaborate with the social media team to translate reporting into social-ready content (carousels, graphics, and videos) that captures attention in under five seconds.
  • Build and grow a personal social presence that positions you as a trusted, relatable political communicator in North Carolina.

Cross-Team Collaboration
  • Work closely with social, political editorial, newsletter, and marketing teams to ensure consistent messaging and high-quality content.
  • Share learnings and collaborate with other correspondents and editors across the Courier network.
  • Contribute to growth and monetization strategies for state-level media products.

The Ideal Candidate
Experience & Skills
  • 5+ years of political reporting or political content creation.
  • Deep understanding of North Carolina's political landscape and community dynamics.
  • Demonstrated track record of building an audience through content or product.
  • Strong writing/reporting skills with an ability to translate complex politics into accessible, values-rooted storytelling with minimal editing oversight.
  • Experience creating content for social platforms (Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, YouTube).
  • Comfort on camera and willingness to appear in videos or host short-form segments.
  • Familiarity with tools such as Canva, Emplifi, Descript; willingness to learn new tools.
  • Comfort experimenting with tone, formats, and approaches to meet audience needs.
  • Ability to work independently in a startup-like, fast-paced environment.

Mindset
  • Excited to build something from the ground up and own content end-to-end.
  • Passionate about reaching audiences in more accessible ways and engaging them to act.
  • Values-driven, mission-centered, and committed to factual, helpful political journalism.
  • Collaborative, flexible, and comfortable adapting to changing priorities.
  • Interested in growing a personal brand as a trusted local messenger.

Courier Newsroom offers the following benefits:
  • Unlimited Paid Time Off (PTO), 11 paid holidays a year
  • An Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Full suite of health benefits
  • $500 home office reimbursement
  • 401k
  • Flexible working arrangements