Peter Baker is a distinguished American journalist and author, renowned for his extensive coverage of U.S. presidencies and political events. As the chief White House correspondent for The New York Times, Baker has established himself as a leading voice in political journalism, adeptly navigating the complexities of the White House under five different administrations, from Bill Clinton to Joe Biden. His insightful reporting has earned him numerous accolades, including the Gerald R. Ford Journalism Prize for Distinguished Reporting on the Presidency, highlighting his exceptional ability to analyze and convey the intricacies of presidential actions and policies.
Baker’s career began at The Washington Times before he joined The Washington Post in 1988, where he spent two decades honing his skills as a political reporter. His groundbreaking work during the Clinton-Lewinsky scandal showcased his investigative prowess, culminating in the publication of his first book, “The Breach,” which became a New York Times bestseller. His tenure at The Washington Post also included significant coverage of the Bush administration, where he reported on pivotal events such as the Iraq War and Hurricane Katrina, further solidifying his reputation as a premier political journalist.
In 2008, Baker transitioned to The New York Times, where he continued to excel, receiving the Aldo Beckman Memorial Award for his comprehensive coverage of President Obama’s first term. His ability to distill complex political narratives into engaging stories has made him a sought-after analyst, contributing to MSNBC and PBS’s Washington Week.
Baker is also a prolific author, with several acclaimed books to his name, including “Days of Fire” and “The Divider,” co-authored with his wife, Susan Glasser. His works not only reflect his deep understanding of political dynamics but also engage readers with compelling narratives that illuminate the inner workings of American governance. Through his journalism and writing, Peter Baker continues to shape the discourse around U.S. politics, making significant contributions to the field.