Special Assignment Politics Reporter

Date Posted	June 02, 2026
Industry	Digital Media
Specialty	Not Specified
Required Education	Bachelor's Degree
Remote / Telecommute	Hybrid
Job Status	Freelance
Salary	Negotiable

Description:

Tosa Forward News, Wauwatosa's local source for reliable, fact-based news, information and community stories, is seeking a special assignment politics reporter for short-term freelance work covering the summer and fall campaigns for state Senate and Assembly in the districts that include the city.

Wauwatosa, a city of nearly 50,000 people, is a vibrant and growing suburb on the west side of Milwaukee, and Tosa Forward News covers the city at all levels, from city government and school district news to the business landscape, housing development and neighborhood features. With state elections about to heat up across Wisconsin, Tosa Forward News aims to put its local stamp on coverage of the people who want to represent our city in Madison.

Job Requirements

- Successful candidate commits to reporting a series of stories encompassing each of the key legislative races, including candidate profiles, comparison pieces on key issues, examination of Wauwatosa's changing role in state politics and breaking news coverage of election results.
- This hybrid position combines remote reporting, when appropriate, with in-person coverage of campaign events and candidate interviews. Must have reliable transportation and the ability to travel for field reporting in the Wauwatosa area when the stories require it.
- Contracted work will span the summer and early fall months, through the Aug. 11 primary election and the Nov. 3 general election, with an option for some additional post-election reporting.
- Frequency of stories will vary depending on the needs of the news, though the reporter should be prepared to file at least one story every two weeks, possibly averaging up to a story a week if the campaigns merit it.
- All reporting must meet the highest industry standards for journalism ethics, accuracy and fairness.
- All writing must be clear, concise and sophisticated, yet written for actual humans, specifically an audience of mostly Wauwatosa residents, with an appreciation for personal detail and storytelling.

Required Experience

- Bachelor's degree or higher in journalism, English or related field.
- At least 3-5 years of journalism experience, preferably demonstrating an ability to meet daily deadlines.
- Demonstrated experience successfully reporting on political news, including political campaigns.
- Thorough knowledge of AP Style.
- Excellent command of the English language, including word choice, syntax, grammar, spelling and perhaps the well-placed metaphor (used sparingly).

To apply

Send a cover letter, resume and some examples of stories you have written on political topics to editor@tosanews.com.