Talking Politics with Paul Conner
In a day and age, where just simply saying the term “politics” polarizes a conversation, we must make sure we, as journalists, are getting it right.
No one understands this more than Paul Conner.
Conner is the executive editor of the political news site, The Daily Caller, and was kind enough to speak to our senior capstone class last Wednesday.
The Road to Journalism
Conner got his start in Greenville, SC. Conner admits that he was always interested in reading the newspaper growing up. In high school, Conner was given the opportunity to tour the newsroom of The Greenville News. After the tour, Conner was given the opportunity to freelance with the news organization and has been in the journalism business ever since.
Conner said he didn’t stop freelancing after his high school graduation. Instead, he ended up attending North Greenville University close by, and kept his freelance career with The Greenville News going. During Conner’s college years, he traveled to Washington D.C. and was able to connect with The Daily Caller. After graduation, The Daily Caller was hiring, and Conner decided to apply.
Conner initially thought he would become a reporter, but the position was actually for an editor. He took the position and has been working there ever since.
What is Political Reporting?
Reporting on policy, Leadership Intrigue and Elections are three typical ways that politics will make the news, according to Conner.
While Conner admits that Elections usually get the most coverage, reporting on policy is equally as important. The contents of a particular policy will affect both you and your neighbors’ lives, and it is important to know how.
It’s an aspect of reporting that Conner says doesn’t get a lot of attention but should.
Good Characteristics of Political Journalism
Conner lists several qualities in good political journalism.
A Healthy Skepticism- To go beyond the initial story and not accept the first thing you hear. Conner admits this can turn towards cynicism, but that you must keep yourself open to stories and sources.
Persistence- This was reiterated by Conner several times. He told us all that a great practice, as a political journalist, is to be persistent and consistent.
A Desire to Get the Truth- Conner says it is important for journalists to keep asking questions and for politicians to show their work, or proof, when making claims.
Conner also adds that being friendly goes a long way.
Conner says that political reporting can be fun and allows journalists to meet interesting people. There is also the aspect of making a difference in other people’s lives.
There are drawbacks as well. Conner says the work can be tiring and that you can feel like you are always “on.”
Learning to Build Credibility
The Daily Caller was started in 2010, according to the publication’s website. Being a newer publication, our class wanted to know how the site builds credibility in a time when there is a lack of trust of the media. Conner says that to build credibility, you have to get stuff right. You must be careful and check facts as much as you can. If there is a mistake, acknowledge the mistake.
Conner also says it is important to show readers how the site makes money. If you go to the About Us page of The Daily Caller, you will find that the publication lists the ways in which they make money and lists the entire staff hierarchy and contributors. There is also a way for readers to notify the site directly if they spot an error.
I’m not sure if I would go into the field of political journalism, but Paul Conner makes me think more about that decision. It is incredibly refreshing to find someone that is critically examining the policies that impact our lives and I am grateful to Conner for his work.
Social Media Links
Meet Caitlin
Caitlin is a storyteller and photographer currently based in the coastal city of Wilmington, N.C.
A self-confessed romantic, she is a firm believer that there is good in the world.
Want To Keep Up With The Latest Content From Cameron Cait?
I want to keep you in the know! Click the link to sign up for the email list. I don’t like spam mail and promise not to fill your mailbox with it either.
