In an era when journalism is perceived—perhaps correctly—as a hostage to political alliances, the ideal of an unbiased press remains indispensable, especially for those of us inside Washington’s elite press corps.
I have covered two radically different administrations over the past eight years—one helmed by an unorthodox Republican Donald Trump and the other by an old-guard Democrat Joe Biden. My role has propelled me into one of America’s most influential journalistic circles, where the stakes are as high as the stories we pursue.
In an era when journalism is perceived—perhaps correctly—as a hostage to political alliances, the ideal of an unbiased press remains indispensable.
White House Correspondent Ksenija Pavlovic McAteer
Navigating the highs and lows of both administrations, I faced countless moments where I could have picked sides or become an advocate rather than a journalist. Invitations to exclusive parties and off-the-record gatherings were the norm, some accepted, others declined. But I was always acutely aware that getting too close to any administration official would compromise my ability to hold them to account.
Jeff Bezos famously resisted endorsing a presidential candidate, and even USA Today joined the small group of major publications that refrained from taking sides. These decisions underscore the challenge of news ownership.
In Washington, it remains fashionable—if not obligatory—to be a Democrat. The social dividends are high, especially now that Trump’s scorched-earth approach has reshaped the GOP’s very identity. Yet this cozy alignment with either party risks clouding the lens of independent journalism. That’s why I believe journalists, like military leaders, should abstain from voting while in critical positions to maintain public trust.
In a nation ripped apart by polarization, even the hint of partisanship can erode our credibility. And in this election—one that will set the course for how the next president integrates or alienates millions of citizens—I decided the best way to preserve my impartiality was not to vote.
Arriving at this decision was not easy, but experience in the White House press corps taught me that objectivity often demands the suspension of personal opinions. Especially as I prepare to cover the transition and dive into the first one hundred days of the new administration.
I believe journalists, like military leaders, should abstain from voting while in critical positions to maintain public trust.
White House Correspondent Ksenija Pavlovic McAteer
I want to feel free to do my work for the readers so they know they have a trusted, independent voice in the White House press corps.
As a journalist, my commitment is to inform, not to influence. To observe, not to partake. As our country stands at yet another crossroads, I hope that choice serves the greater ideal of our profession.
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