Political commentators are a different breed of news correspondents than political reporters. As such, the salary of a cable political commentator is often much more than the "average" broadcast news analyst. Instead of reporting on the news, these analysts interpret the political landscape, offering their opinions on everything from politicians to public policies – sometimes to a polarizing effect.
Salary Potential
In 2020, half of all broadcast news analysts earned at least $55,030 a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The top 10 percent brought home more than $127,370, while bottom 10 percent earned less than $25,5100. Those working for cable networks, on the other hand, averaged closer to $73,300 a year.
Top Salaries
If you’re lucky enough to rise in the ranks of political commentators, salaries can reach seven to eight figures. For example, Rachel Maddow, a liberal political commentator for MSNBC, and Charlie Rose, a political correspondent for CBS, both earn $2 million a year. Joe Scarborough, a conservative political commentator for MSNBC, earns $3.5 million, while Chris Matthews, a liberal political commentator for MSNBC, earns $4.5 million. Laura Ingraham, a conservative political commentator on XM Radio, earns $7 million a year.
Educational Requirements
Employers typically seek candidates with at least a bachelor’s degree in journalism or communications. But with political commentators, a degree in political science, economics or law may be preferred. Internships at news organizations can also prove beneficial, as they provide not only practical experience but also a deeper understanding of the political, social and economical environment.
Future Outlook
The BLS expects employment for broadcast news analysts to decline by as much as 9 percent through 2024. Which is the same decline in employment for reporters and correspondents and slower than the average growth rate for all U.S. occupations, an estimated 7 percent. News organizations are more interested in hiring analysts to interpret and provide commentary on politics and other news stories than reporters who offer the unbiased facts of current events.
