Special Topics (490-0-25)

Topic

Medill Explores: Political Primaries

Instructors

Elizabeth Shogren

Meeting Info

Washington, DC Bureau: Mon 10:00AM - 12:50PM

Overview of class

Every four years, reporters head out on the campaign trail to cover one of the most important exercises in American democracy, presidential campaigns. In this course, students will analyze and participate in the coverage of the presidential primaries leading up to the 2024 elections. Students may also choose to focus on congressional races or critical issues such as abortion, inflation and the culture wars. The course will introduce students to some of the best political reporting and help them hone their own skills as political reporters. Guest speakers will instruct students in how to use the best tools for tracking campaign contributions and spending, as well as how to interpret public opinion polling. In the lead up to the primary in South Carolina, students will hit the campaign trail themselves to cover rallies, interview voters and dig deep into contentious issues.

Class Materials (Required)

None

Class Notes

Class will also be held on Tuesday, January 16th

Class Attributes

Attendance at 1st class mandatory
Course meets in Washington DC