Lee Walczak Award for Political Analysis

Named in memory of Lee Walczak, a distinguished Washington editor, bureau chief, and White House correspondent who worked for Bloomberg News and BusinessWeek, this award recognizes excellence in political analysis. 

The Lee Walczak Award honors work that goes beyond breaking news to provide insight, context, and interpretation of political developments. Winning entries will demonstrate a deep understanding of political institutions, actors, and dynamics, and help audiences better understand the forces shaping public policy and governance.

Entry Requirements:

  • Up to five (5) print, online, broadcast, or audio entries, which will be judged as one unit

Prize: $1000

General Eligibility:

Through its journalism awards, the National Press Club seeks to recognize and honor professional journalists who have produced outstanding work in service of the public, either independently or as employees of editorially independent news organizations. 

In evaluating entries, judges will give weight to evidence of:

  • Individual enterprise
  • Fairness
  • Accuracy
  • Objectivity 

The following are not eligible: 

  • Content produced for house organs
  • Theses or academic reports
  • Advocacy outlets operated by interest groups, including trade associations, consumer organizations, or government agencies 

Entries may be submitted by journalists or by their employers. Entrants are responsible for ensuring judges can access all submitted materials and must provide passwords or access credentials where required. 

Non-traditional entrants are welcome, provided they clearly explain in supporting materials how their work meets the Club’s journalistic standards. Such entrants should include a brief statement describing their editorial independence.