2019 NPC Press vs. Politicians Spelling Bee

Livestream will begin 9/17 at 7:00pm ET.

Relationships between politicians and the media who cover them have been tested throughout history, but on Tuesday, September 17, 2019 in the National Press Club’s historic ballroom, fun and friendly competition will prevail as lawmakers and reporters compete in the uproariously entertaining Press vs. Politicians Spelling Bee. National Press Club President Alison Kodjak will serve as the host of this year’s Bee, while Dr. Jacques Bailly, the Scripps National Spelling Bee's official pronouncer and 1980 winner of their competition, will officiate. The first such event was held in 1913, with newly elected President Woodrow Wilson in the audience for the inaugural showdown, which was won by members of the House and Senate. The Press vs. Politicians Spelling Bee was reinstituted on its 100th anniversary in 2013 and has become a Washington tradition since. Doors will open at 6 p.m. and the Bee will start at 7:00 p.m. Tickets will also be available at the door, along with a cash bar and complimentary snacks. Proceeds from the event support the activities of the Club’s nonprofit Journalism Institute, which defends press freedom worldwide, provides training for news professionals, and scholarships for the next generation of journalists.