Sr Political Reporter

USA Today Co • Milwaukee, WI

4d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel is seeking an experienced political reporter to lead national coverage focused on Wisconsin, its political representatives, and key state concerns in the nation's capital. This role is crucial for the government and political coverage team, aiming to provide exclusive and distinct reporting from a state historically divided. The ideal candidate will be adept at connecting politics and government to individual lives, simplifying complex subjects, identifying compelling examples, and crafting engaging narratives. This position demands a commitment to thoughtful, truth-seeking journalism. A key aspect is the ability to generate in-depth political reporting, leveraging expertise in voting, campaign finance, and polling, alongside insights into policy areas and spending priorities affecting Wisconsin. The role requires a self-starter capable of building a strong network of sources to produce a mix of daily and enterprise stories, suitable for digital and social platforms. Journalists skilled in creating quick video updates with lawmakers and expanding audience reach across new platforms will be highly valued. Familiarity with Wisconsin or D.C. politics is expected, with a willingness to report from both locations. The role is slated to begin in Wisconsin during key election months, with a potential relocation to D.C. based on the candidate's profile.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or master’s in communications, journalism or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum of three years of reporting experience.
• Strong command of newswriting grammar and style.
• Strong copy-editing skills and the ability to produce content that is clean, accurate and publication ready.
• Passionate and enthusiastic about news and content that will work well with audiences on social platforms.
• Comfortable using social media platforms to enhance reporting and deliver stories.
• Understands reporting ethics and sourcing.
• Excels in a fast-paced news environment and understands the digital first mission.
• Collaborates well with others and can work with a team on the biggest stories.
• Must be willing to travel on short notice to cover breaking news events.
• Requires a valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and the minimum liability insurance required by state law.
• Employment is contingent on passing a post-offer pre-employment background check, motor vehicle record check & urinalysis drug screen.

Nice To Haves

• Skills to provide quick stand-up videos with lawmakers on important topics and other approaches to expand audience across new platforms.
• Existing familiarity with Wisconsin or D.C. politics.

Responsibilities

• Use source development, data and document reporting and strategic thinking to identify and report on key issues.
• Offer independent, innovative thinking in shaping coverage of those issues.
• Experiment with video, social media and other tools to report and share information as widely as possible.
• Use metrics to gauge audience interests and develop coverage plans to better satisfy audience needs.
• Demonstrate clear concise writing skills with strong nut graphs and “why this is important” content.
• Help readers find answers and solutions.
• Develop a trusted reputation in coverage area.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Associate degree