Jenna Johnson, deputy democracy editor for the Washington Post, will be the featured speaker at the 2023 Seline Lecture, hosted by the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s College of Journalism and Mass Communications.

The talk, “Deepening polarization, rampant misinformation and the erosion of democracy in the United States,” 12:30-1:15 p.m. April 11, in 102 Louise Pound Hall on City Campus.

Johnson’s extensive career at the Post spans almost 15 years, during which she has covered several political campaigns and worked with nearly every section of the newsroom. She was the lead reporter for Donald Trump’s presidential campaign and covered the Trump White House for more than a year. Currently, she leads a team focused on the electoral process and voting rights, managing reporters nationwide and leading collaborations with journalists engaged in democracy coverage.

During the lecture, Johnson will share her insights and experiences about the challenges journalists face in an environment where many Americans are no longer sure which facts to believe and are quick to believe the ones they like best. She will discuss how political affiliation now defines much more than where one stands on policy issues and how it often dictates how people get their news and which sources to trust.

The Seline Lecture, established in 2010, engages journalism innovators and thought leaders on critical industry challenges.

Funded by the Seline Family in memory of their parents, S. Allen and Kathleen D. Seline, the Seline Lecture is free and open to the public. It will be aired on 90.3 KRNU and live streamed.

“We are thrilled to have Jenna Johnson as our featured speaker for this year’s Seline Lecture,” said Shari Veil, dean of the College of Journalism and Mass Communications. “Her expertise in political reporting and democracy coverage will provide valuable insights for our students and the broader community.”

For more information, contact Zac Franzen, alumni relations and events coordinator, at 402-472-3053 or zfranzen@unl.edu.