2026 Press & Politicians Spelling Bee

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Jun 10 2026

WHEN:

Jun 10, 2026 at 7:00pm

WHERE:

Ballroom

CONTACT INFO:

Cecily Scott Martin

[email protected]

MORE INFO:

Special Event

Registration/tickets required

Relationships between politicians and the media who cover them have become increasingly intense, but on Wednesday, June 10 in the National Press Club’s historic ballroom, fun and friendly competition will prevail as lawmakers and reporters compete in the uproariously entertaining Press & Politicians Spelling Bee.

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 spelling bee was reinstated on its 100th anniversary in 2013 and has become a Washington tradition since.

Continuing with tradition, Scripps National Spelling Bee will provide the words, pronouncer, and judges.

Proceeds from the spelling bee support the Club's nonprofit affiliate, the National Press Club Journalism Institute (EIN: 52-1750908). The National Press Club Journalism Institute promotes First Amendment values by equipping journalists in Washington, D.C., and nationwide with the skills, knowledge, standards, resources, and networks to empower and inform the public. The Institute serves 9,000+ journalists annually through its training, press freedom efforts, scholarships, and more.

Event sponsorship opportunities are available. Please contact Institute Executive Director Beth Francesco to place your sponsorship order.