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Political Journalist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Fox

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

FOX News Network, LLC

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

Kdfw Fox 4

Political Reporter

Chicago, IL

$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

Cheddar

Freelance Multimedia Journalist

Washington, DC

$75 - $100/hr

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

Cheddar

Freelance Multimedia Journalist

Washington, DC · On-site

$75 - $100/hr

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

Nexstar Media Group

Multimedia Journalist

Du Bois, PA · On-site

... 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 ...

WOWK-TV

Multimedia Journalist

Du Bois, PA

... 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 ...

Tribune Media

Multimedia Journalist

Du Bois, PA · On-site

... 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 ...

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How much do political journalist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 10, 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 typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, with experienced professionals or those working for major outlets earning over $100,000. Salaries vary based on experience, location, and the size of the media organization, and the role often requires strong writing, reporting skills, and knowledge of political processes.

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 do political journalists do?

Political journalists research, write, and report on political events, policies, and government actions for newspapers, TV, or online outlets. They analyze political developments, interview officials, and often work under tight deadlines to inform the public about current affairs.

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, campaign manager, or public relations specialist. These jobs typically require strong writing, media skills, and understanding of political processes and messaging 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.
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Political Journalist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Political Journalist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, and 29% Part Time. Highlights an 75% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,979 per year, or $29.3 per hour.

John DiStaso Political Fellowship

Hearst Newspapers

Manchester, NH

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

John DiStaso Political Fellowship

The John DiStaso Political Fellowship is a one-semester paid position at Hearst ABC affiliate WMUR-TV in Manchester, NH.  Our Fellow will work closely with members of our political team on several projects including daily political coverage, our 2022 and 2024 election-related coverage, and our weekly political show, "CloseUP".  The Fellowship will be awarded to a motivated junior or senior in college who is interested in pursuing a career in political journalism.

More about John DiStaso

John DiStaso was the most experienced political journalist in New Hampshire. He was often referred to as the "dean" of New Hampshire's political press corps. John died from complications of pancreatic cancer on April 21, 2022, at the age of 68.  Throughout his career, DiStaso interviewed four sitting presidents and countless presidential candidates while covering 11 New Hampshire primaries. John spent much of his career working for New Hampshire's largest newspaper, "The Union Leader".  He spent the last seven years of his career working for WMUR, where he wrote daily for WMUR.com regularly breaking stories.  He also often appeared on WMUR-TV to provide analysis for political stories.

The opportunity

In this political fellowship, you'll play a meaningful role on the experienced political team of WMUR. You'll follow in John's footsteps working on daily political coverage. You'll learn from John's enduring legacy, as well as the experienced political team at WMUR to gain the knowledge and experience to launch a successful career in political journalism.

How to qualify

  • Working toward a bachelor's degree in Political Science, Journalism, Communications or a related degree
  • Experience in journalism through internships or college media
  • Goal to work in the field of journalism
  • Excellent writing and research skills
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
  • Deadline driven
  • Willingness to work various shifts including nights, weekends and holidays
  • You also need to have a strong academic record, and two recommendations from faculty or internship supervisors

How to apply

Please apply on our career site. Include the following documentation in your application:

  • Include the following documentation in your application:
    • A letter expressing interest in the fellowship and promoting your candidacy
    • A summary of your commitment to journalism (one page, single-spaced)
    • A current resume citing work experience and accomplishments
    • A complete academic transcript through your completed semester
    • Two academic or professional recommendations
    • Finalists will be interviewed by phone and either in-person or via video conference

Application deadlines

For the fall fellowship, applications are due by June 15th. For the spring fellowship, applications are due by September 15th. Decisions regarding fall selection will be made in July and decisions regarding spring selection will be made in October.

Hearst Television (HTV) owns and/or operates 35 television and two radio stations serving 27 media markets across 39 states reaching over 22 million U.S. television households. HTV is recognized as one of the industry's premier broadcasting companies and has been honored with numerous awards for distinguished journalism, industry innovation, and community service.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. we do not discriminate in hiring on the basis of sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, creed, national, origin, physical or mental disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

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