Politics and Campaign Reporter

If you’re a journalist inspired to follow stories about the intersection of policy and politics, then you may be the next politics and campaign reporter at CalMatters — an award-winning and influential nonprofit, multimedia news venture covering the cutting-edge state of California.

You’ll cover some of the nation’s most important political figures and issues. California’s governor is seeking a national profile and is on the short list of possible contenders for the White House. Vice President Kamala Harris, a former California senator, is a possible rival. And there is a hotly contested race in 2024 to replace Sen. Dianne Feinstein. When not covering campaigns, you’ll also explore the politics behind state policy decisions as dominant Democrats wrestle with major, contentious decisions about housing and homelessness, technology, climate change and inequality. This is a rich opportunity for stories that explain why decisions are made the way they are because of the political influences and stakes involved.

CalMatters produces vivid, original multimedia journalism and data-driven news analyses that appear daily on our website and are distributed for free to more than 250 media partners statewide. You’ll join a supportive, diverse staff of 60+ people across the state and a small award-winning team of Capitol reporters.

This position is based within regular commuting distance of Sacramento and requires frequent work at the Capitol covering state lawmakers.

Responsibilities include:

Report and write state-focused political stories in a variety of formats, including in-depth longform, smart enterprise, data-rich card deck explainers, concise newsletter items and occasional breaking news.
Cover state elections leading up to California’s 2024 March primary and November general election, focusing on the electoral process, state ballot propositions,and races for the Legislature and Congress. In 2026, coverage will also include the contest for a new governor and other state constitutional offices. Stories should be attuned to statewide patterns and include candidate qualifications, stances on vital issues, the role of money, political alliances, campaign tactics and more.
Help create CalMatters’ go-to online Voter Guide.
Collaborate on inventive packages that may include video, audio and data interactives.
Follow the role politics plays in legislative bills, state policy-making and policy-enforcing agencies, and keep apprised of academic research and advocacy efforts.
Participate in public events and appearances on radio, television and social media platforms.
Contribute to our story production, including work with our CMS, creating data graphics and using SEO best practices.