Political Reporting in an Era of News Media Crisis

Alumni speakers included Deni Kamper, communications director for U.S. Senator Chris Murphy; Brenden Moore, Illinois state government reporter for Lee Enterprises; and Brendan Pedersen, financial services reporter for Punchbowl News. They shared insights from their work covering politics in Washington, D.C., and Springfield. The panel also featured Chicago political consultants Delmarie Cobb of The Publicity Works and Thom M. Serafin, co-Chair of Mercury Public Affairs. The discussion was moderated by CJIE’s Lisa Parker and Carol Marin.

Panelists addressed the realities of today’s newsroom, including media consolidation, navigating claims of “fake news,” and the ongoing importance of defending free speech. They also offered practical guidance to students, encouraging them to pursue stories in their communities, rely on thorough research and multiple sources, and gain firsthand newsroom experience.

The event brought together current students, alumni, and participants from CJIE’s High School J-Days workshop. NBC5 political reporter Mary Ann Ahern joined the panel from the audience to contribute to the discussion.