Politics Trending Reporter

USA TODAY/usatoday.com, a digital-first news organization, is seeking a Politics Trending Reporter focused on finding and reporting on daily and breaking stories related to politics that are of interest to USA TODAY audiences.

The reporter will identify and report on timely stories, using strong news judgment, as well as the latest trends, metrics and social tools to find stories that will resonate. Coverage can include anything from the latest polls to a development in Congress to helping monitor government briefings to a what to know about a political figure.

We want someone who can work calmly under tight deadlines, deliver scoops, write quickly, make a lot of phone calls, dig up documents, be creative, think about storytelling on different platforms and deliver sharp headlines. Someone willing to learn new skills and think about how to tell the story in new ways.

They are also comfortable with live blogs, quick enterprise stories and excel at SEO. This person will work regularly with reporters and editors on other teams and across the USA TODAY Network.

The ideal Politics Trending Reporter is interested in a little bit of everything, likes to jump on breaking news and enjoys reporting on all things politics. The position demands initiative, accuracy, urgency and insight.

This role is remote and can be based anywhere in the US, except for Alaska, Hawaii and Wyoming.

Job Level: Reporter (USAT)

Minimum salary: $65,000

Responsibilities:

• Identify and report on top national politics stories of the day and monitor real-time news.
• Write and report quickly and accurately, doggedly chasing down tips and trying to answer readers' questions.
• Work with coworkers to deliver news via stories, video, newsletters, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or any other methods available to reach our audience.
• Use metrics to inform story choices and shape strategies.
• This Politics Trending Reporter works Sunday through Thursday and sometimes helps out on holidays.

Requirements:

• Bachelor's or master's degree in journalism or any other subject or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum of 2 years' reporting/newsroom experience.
• Able to file quickly and accurately.
• Strong command of grammar and style.
• Passionate and enthusiastic about breaking news and covering high-interest topics of the day.
• Comfortable in fluid, fast-moving, intense situations. Also comfortable using social media to enhance reporting.
• Understand reporting and sourcing ethics.
• Excel in a fast-paced news environment and understands the digital-first mission.
• Collaborate well with others and can work with a team - including teammates and colleagues who are remote.
• Candidates should have facility with AI and automation and experience in using it to enhance their journalism.

Application Instructions
We are eager to learn more about you and how you fit this role. When you apply, don't limit your upload to a resume; show us what you've done. To do so, put together a single document file that includes the following, in this order:

1. Your resume - one to two pages.
2. A cover letter that outlines how you would approach the job.
3. Links to 3-6 online samples of your work. Show us what you've produced or had a hand in that best reflects what you can do in your desired role.

It is important that these items be assembled into a single document and uploaded in PDF format. Completing these steps will ensure that your application receives the highest consideration.

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The hourly rate for this role will range between $25.48 and $39.81. Base compensation is reflective of many factors, including, but not limited to, the market in which one lives/works, individual education level, skills, certifications and experience. Note: variable compensation is not reflected in these figures and based on the role, may be applicable.

Client-provided location(s): Flexible / Remote

Job ID: utn-89348

Employment Type: OTHER

Posted: 2026-05-12T20:51:30