Martha Raddatz Honored with National Press Club's Esteemed Fourth Estate Award

Martha Raddatz, renowned chief global affairs correspondent for ABC News and co-anchor of "This Week," is set to receive the prestigious Fourth Estate Award from the National Press Club (NPC). The award ceremony will take place at a gala in Washington, D.C. on November 12, 2026. Recognized as the highest honor bestowed upon a journalist by the NPC, the Fourth Estate Award is given to individuals who have made substantial contributions to the field of journalism.

Raddatz has had a distinguished career spanning decades, during which she has been at the forefront of major events in national security, foreign policy, and political journalism. Her extensive experience includes reporting from the State Department, the White House, and various conflict zones around the globe. The Fourth Estate Award is particularly significant today, as it highlights the critical role journalism plays in fostering informed democratic societies, especially at a time when press freedoms are increasingly challenged.

In her own words, Raddatz expressed her gratitude for this recognition: "The greatest privilege of my career is the trust people place in me when they share their stories. This trust extends beyond the cameras, as I often remain involved long after the news cycle has passed. I am truly honored to receive this award and what it represents—an acknowledgment of the impactful stories we've reported and the lives we've touched."

Throughout her career, Raddatz has reported on numerous global conflicts, beginning with the Bosnian War and continuing through the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. She has embedded with U.S. military forces during many critical missions, providing exclusive insights into significant events such as the raid that killed Osama bin Laden, U.S. military operations against ISIS, and the ongoing crises in Ukraine and the Middle East.

Mark Schoeff Jr., the 119th president of the National Press Club, praised Raddatz's journalistic contributions, stating, "Martha's work embodies the highest standards of our profession—rigorous reporting, clarity under pressure, and a steadfast commitment to informing the public on matters of global significance. Her exemplary dedication underscores the spirit of the Fourth Estate Award."

Martha Raddatz has consistently demonstrated a willingness to go where the story takes her, often at great personal risk. Her tenacity has guided her into the heart of military operations, onto naval vessels in active conflict zones, and into conversations with world leaders who shape global politics.

In addition to her war reporting, Raddatz is known for her significant role in political journalism, having moderated the vice presidential debate in 2012 and co-moderated various presidential primary and general election debates. Notably, she provided critical coverage of the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol and has conducted high-profile interviews with both U.S. and international leaders, such as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

In an era where misinformation spreads rapidly, Raddatz's journalism is distinguished by its accuracy and depth. Her ability to report from authoritarian regimes and provide a voice for those who often go unheard emphasizes her commitment to serving the public's right to know. Whether managing political discussions, covering frontline conflicts, or engaging with global leaders, Raddatz brings accountability, context, and credibility to her work.

ABC News President Almin Karamehmedovic commended her dedication, saying, "Martha Raddatz represents the pinnacle of journalism, marked by fearless reporting, unwavering integrity, and a profound humanity in the narratives she shares. She is truly deserving of this recognition, as her work has both informed and inspired audiences."

Before joining ABC News, Raddatz served as the Pentagon correspondent for NPR and held the position of chief correspondent for ABC's affiliate in Boston, WCVB-TV. Her contributions to journalism have earned her numerous awards, including Emmy Awards, a Peabody Award, and the Walter Cronkite Award for excellence in political journalism.

The Fourth Estate Gala will commence with a reception at 6 p.m. ET, followed by a dinner and awards program starting at 7 p.m. The seating for the gala is priced at $200 for NPC members and $350 for general public attendees. Proceeds from the event will benefit the NPC Journalism Institute, which aims to equip journalists with the necessary tools and skills to navigate the evolving landscape of journalism.

In addition to honoring Raddatz, the gala will also recognize recipients of the John Aubuchon Press Freedom Awards and the Neil and Susan Sheehan Award for Investigative Journalism.

The National Press Club, established in 1908, stands as a leading organization for journalists worldwide, advocating for press freedom and supporting the role of media in informing the public.

Martha Raddatz's upcoming accolade not only celebrates her remarkable contributions to journalism but also underscores the vital importance of accurate and fearless reporting in our increasingly complex world.