Current statehouse reporter Austin Jenkins and former reporter David Ammons discuss the history of the WA capitol press corps, the duties of a statehouse reporter, and the need for robust reporting in Olympia.
Discussion questions:
- What is the Washington State press corps? What role does it play in WA politics and government?
- Describe the differences between the residential press corps and the visiting press corps.
- Is it important for a statehouse reporter to follow statewide campaigns and elections? Why or why not?
- According to Austin Jenkins, what is the role of a statehouse reporter? What day-to-day activities does he describe?
- According to David Ammons, how has the press corps changed over years? How has changes in technology impacted the job of a statehouse reporter?
- Do you agree with Jenkins and Ammons that there is a need for a strong reporting at the state capital? Why or why not?
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