National Institute of Mass Communication & Journalism, Ahmedabad

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Political reporting in journalism is a branch of journalism, which specifically keeps eyes on various political events and issues to cover stories neutrally in the public interest. Political reporting can be done for different channels such as newspapers, radio, television, magazine, digital newswires, etc.

A journalist working on political reporting covers one or more of the following:

• Different political activities by ruling and opposite parties

• Election campaigns and truth behind them

• Review various public policies

• Keep a check on law and other government and legal systems and institutes

Political journalism has always been important, but now, it is even more vital. Let’s see more on the importance of political reporting:

1. To Keep the System Running in the Public Interest

The whole nation in any part of the world is dependent on the law and rules set by the government. Political reporting in journalism plays an important role to make sure that things are happening in the public interest. Let’s see some of the examples:

• Political reporting keeps everyone aware of the new rule enforcement or change in any existing law or process.

• It not only keeps a close watch on the rules made by the government in different areas, but it also analyzes it from the perspective of the public and criticizes or appreciates the new rules.

• It shows the weak points in the system or various departments to get the revolutionary changes.

• Political reporters ask burning questions, which make sure all the steps taken by any political party are highly calculative.

2. To Assure the Ruling Political Party Works in Favor of Citizens

Generally, all government departments and actions are driven using the money of the public. These actions affect various factors of your life, such as:

• Getting an education

• Getting a driving license

• Paying taxes on income, property, etc.

Thus, the role of political reporting is very crucial here. Reports keep a close watch to make sure the government uses the funds in the right direction. Also, everything can be availed with ease to you.

Read Related Blog: 6 Important Types of Beats in Journalism

3. To Know the Unbiased Truth Behind Political Campaigns

Different political parties run various campaigns for election, conduct public meetings for general awareness, hold press conferences about the new legislation, and communicate to the public in multiple ways. The political reporting in journalism takes an important responsibility here. The reporters working in this branch of journalism make sure that they do not believe and report what is evident in the campaigns. They do the groundwork to identify the facts behind various political campaigns and intentions of different activities. They also raise questions about crucial things. The end report reaches the public is always based on solid facts and unbiased views.

In a nutshell, political reporting plays a vital role in our lives by providing us unbiased political stories to choose the right candidate that works in the public interest.  

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