The Houston Chronicle is looking for an ambitious political reporter to explore the impact of Texas policies on the state’s economy and the people who live here.
This is a new beat at the Chronicle and will pick up where political coverage often ends — at the rollout of a bill or executive order. The reporter will use data and on-the-ground reporting to uncover who benefits from legislation, such as property tax cuts and economic incentives, and who’s left behind. They will tell the stories of Texans affected by the state’s lagging minimum wage and loose parental leave policies, of businesses propped up by Gov. Greg Abbott’s border security spending and of cities and towns in the crosshairs of the state Legislature’s effort to curb local control. This reporter must be able to expertly translate legislative actions and their economic impact for the everyday Texan.
The reporter will hold lawmakers accountable for unfulfilled promises and take readers behind the scenes on the negotiations around key economic bills. They will be expected to develop deep sourcing in Austin and collaborate with other statehouse reporters, as well as with the Chronicle’s data and visuals teams. They will also help cover congressional and federal news as the need arises.
The role will be based in the statehouse bureau in Austin.
Responsibilities:
- Break news that cuts through the noise, aggressively owning coverage of how Texas policies affect everyday Texans
- Handle both daily breaking news assignments and deliver groundbreaking scoops plus high-level enterprise
- Develop and nurture sources to deliver scoops and high-impact enterprise
- Think differently about the traditional approach to political reporter, e.g. what was once a story could now be a searchable database, newsletter course or interactive map
- Utilize search tools to advance news stories and investigations and own coverage in the places where audiences find information (search, social and newsletters)
- Work collaboratively with editors, reporters, photographers and the audience team to tell impactful stories that attract and retain readers and subscribers
- File and manage records requests
Requirements
- At least three years of reporting experience with proven track record to deliver major scoops, including coverage that uses data, explanatory and investigative skills
- Proven track record of working in a fast-paced breaking news environment
- Experience covering statewide issues in a way that centers audience needs
- Ability to write with clarity and authority
- Proficiency in AP style and grammar
- SEO best practices, including sharp headline writing
To apply, go here.
