Freelance Fact-Checking Reporter-PolitiFact

PolitiFact, a project of the Poynter Institute, is looking for talented freelance or contract fact-checking reporters to help us navigate the noise of the 2026 midterm elections. These positions will focus on high-profile U.S. Senate elections in 2026 in key swing states. The Details: Term: Immediate start through November 2026. Hours: Minimum of 20 hours per week (Monday-Friday) , with potential to scale up to 40 hours as the election cycle heats up. We work on East Coast U.S. time. Location: Fully Remote. While we are open to talent anywhere, we have a strong preference for reporters living in or with deep knowledge of our priority states: Georgia, Maine, New Hampshire, Ohio, Michigan and Iowa. Pay: $30-$35 per hour. What You'll Be Doing: You will be a key part of our 2026 election coverage, ensuring voters have the facts they need. Your day-to-day will include: Tracking the trail: Monitoring U.S. Senate campaigns, advertisements, and stump speeches in key states for factual claims. Rapid-response research: Digging into policy records, campaign finance filings, and legislative history to verify or debunk claims on a tight deadline. Expert writing: Turning complex political maneuvering into clear, objective fact-checks that adhere to PolitiFact’s signature Truth-O-Meter standards. Navigating workflows: Working effectively within the fast-paced ecosystem of political campaigns and newsroom deadlines. What We're Looking For: We need seasoned reporters who understand the nuances of politics. You’ll be a great fit if you have: Political pedigree: Experience in government or political journalism is a must. You should understand how campaigns function and how to navigate political spin. Inquisitive nature: You don’t just take yes for an answer, you find the documentation to prove it. Regional expertise: Knowledge of the political landscape in GA, ME, NH, OH, MI, or IA is a major advantage. Journalistic integrity: A commitment to nonpartisan reporting and the PolitiFact brand of accuracy. Deadline stamina: The ability to produce high-quality, fair, and accurate prose in a fast-paced environment. Ready to Apply? To apply, please submit your resume, 2–3 relevant clips (political or government reporting preferred), and a brief cover letter outlining your experience with the states mentioned above and your weekly availability. Submissions should be sent to the following email address: factchkreporterjob@poynter.org #J-18808-Ljbffr