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Political Writing Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Fox

Political Reporter

Chicago, IL

$60 - $72/hr

Report, write, and deliver compelling political stories for daily newscasts and digital platforms * Develop and maintain relationships with sources within government, campaigns, and policy ...

Kdfw Fox 4

Political Reporter

Chicago, IL

$60 - $72/hr

Report, write, and deliver compelling political stories for daily newscasts and digital platforms * Develop and maintain relationships with sources within government, campaigns, and policy ...

FOX News Network, LLC

Political Reporter

Chicago, IL · On-site

$60 - $72/hr

Report, write, and deliver compelling political stories for daily newscasts and digital platforms * Develop and maintain relationships with sources within government, campaigns, and policy ...

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All JobsPolitical Writing JobsPolitical Writing Jobs in Chicago, IL

Political Writing information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$14

$40

$68

How much do political writing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for political writing in Chicago, IL is $40.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.71 and $48.56 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is political writing?

Political writing is the practice of creating content that analyzes, interprets, or comments on political events, policies, ideologies, or figures. This type of writing can appear in newspapers, magazines, online publications, or books, and covers a wide range of topics, from elections and legislation to political theory. Political writers aim to inform, persuade, or provoke thought among their readers, often providing context, background, or opinion on current affairs. Strong research, analytical, and communication skills are essential for success in this field.

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

To thrive as a Political Writer, you need strong research abilities, analytical thinking, and exceptional writing skills, often supported by a background in journalism, political science, or communications. Familiarity with content management systems (CMS), data visualization tools, and fact-checking resources is typically important. Outstanding political writers also demonstrate critical thinking, adaptability, and the ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and persuasively. These skills and qualities are essential for producing accurate, engaging, and impactful political content that informs and influences public discourse.

What are some common challenges political writers face when ensuring balanced and factual reporting?

Political writers often navigate the challenge of presenting information objectively while covering complex and sensitive topics. They must verify facts from multiple reputable sources, avoid personal biases, and maintain journalistic integrity, especially when deadlines are tight. Collaboration with editors and fact-checkers is key to producing accurate content, and writers frequently adapt to shifting political landscapes and public sentiment. Staying informed about current events and adhering to ethical standards help political writers overcome these challenges and build credibility.

What is the difference between Political Writing vs Political Speechwriter?

AspectPolitical WritingPolitical Speechwriter
Required CredentialsJournalism, Communications, Political ScienceJournalism, Communications, Political Science
Work EnvironmentResearch, drafting, editing in offices or remoteSpeech drafting, collaboration with politicians or officials
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, political campaigns, advocacy groupsPolitical offices, government agencies, campaign teams
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Political Writing involves creating articles, reports, and policy documents, focusing on clear, persuasive communication. Political Speechwriters craft speeches for politicians or officials, emphasizing oral delivery and audience engagement. While both roles require strong writing skills and political knowledge, their primary outputs differ: written content versus spoken speeches.

What are the most commonly searched types of Political Writing jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Political Writing jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Political Writing jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Political Writing jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Political Writing jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Political Writing jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Political Writing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Political Writing job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Internship, 63% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $83,443 per year, or $40.1 per hour.

Political Reporter

Chicago, IL

Fox
See more jobs at Foxexternal

$60 - $72/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

OVERVIEW OF THE COMPANY

Fox TV StationsFOX Television Stations owns and operates 29 full power broadcast television stations in the U.S. These include stations located in 14 of the top 15 largest designated market areas, or DMAs, and duopolies in 11 DMAs, including the three largest DMAs (New York, Los Angeles and Chicago). Of these stations, 18 are affiliated with the FOX Network. In addition to distributing sports, entertainment and syndicated content, our television stations collectively produce approximately 1,200 hours of local news every week. These stations leverage viewer, distributor and advertiser demand for the FOX Network's national content.JOB DESCRIPTION

FOX Chicago is seeking a dynamic and driven Political Reporter to lead coverage of local, state, and national politics with a strong emphasis on digital storytelling and audience engagement. This role requires a journalist who thrives on breaking news, holds public officials accountable, and delivers content across broadcast, web, mobile, and social platforms.

Key Responsibilities

  • Report, write, and deliver compelling political stories for daily newscasts and digital platforms
  • Develop and maintain relationships with sources within government, campaigns, and policy organizations
  • Produce in-depth enterprise and investigative political coverage
  • File quickly and accurately for FOXChicago.com, live blogs, and social media
  • Create digital-first content including articles, explainers, and video clips optimized for online audiences
  • Appear live on-air for breaking political coverage and analysis
  • Collaborate with producers, digital teams, and assignment editors to shape coverage
  • Use data, public records, and research tools to uncover impactful stories
  • Engage with viewers through social media platforms and community events
  • Monitor political trends and identify stories that resonate with a Chicago-area audience

Digital Responsibilities

  • Write and publish multiple web stories daily with SEO best practices
  • Produce short-form and long-form video content for digital platforms
  • Contribute to live streams, special coverage, and election night reporting
  • Leverage analytics tools to inform story decisions and audience growth
  • Maintain an active and professional social media presence (Twitter/X, Facebook, Instagram, etc.)
  • Experiment with new formats such as newsletters, podcasts, or explainers

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Journalism, Communications, Political Science, or related field
  • 3-5+ years of reporting experience, preferably covering politics
  • Strong understanding of local, state, and national politics
  • Proven ability to break stories and cultivate sources
  • Excellent writing, live reporting, and storytelling skills
  • Experience publishing to digital platforms and CMS tools
  • Familiarity with SEO, social media strategy, and audience engagement
  • Ability to work under tight deadlines in a fast-paced newsroom
  • Strong editorial judgment and commitment to journalistic ethics

Preferred Skills

  • Experience covering Chicago or Illinois politics
  • Multimedia skills (shooting/posting video on social media)

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, gender identity, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories consistent with applicable law.

Pursuant to state and local pay disclosure requirements, the pay rate/range for this role, with final offer amount dependent on education, skills, experience, and location is $60.00-72.00 per hour. This role is also eligible for various benefits, including medical/dental/vision, insurance, a 401(k) plan, paid time off, and other benefits in accordance with applicable plan documents. Benefits for Union represented employees will be in accordance with the applicable collective bargaining agreement.

View more detail about FOX Benefits.

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