Rollin Post

Rollin Post. Rollin Post was a revered American broadcast journalist and political analyst whose career was synonymous with public affairs coverage in the Pacific Northwest for over four decades. He became a trusted fixture on television, primarily through his long tenure at KCTS-TV in Seattle and earlier work at KOMO-TV, where he was known for his incisive political reporting and commentary. His work earned him numerous accolades, including multiple Emmy Awards and the prestigious Edward R. Murrow Award, solidifying his reputation as a pillar of Washington state journalism.

Early life and education

Born in 1928, Post grew up in the Seattle area, developing an early interest in current events and American politics. He pursued his higher education at the University of Washington, where he studied political science and began to hone the analytical skills that would define his professional life. His time at the university coincided with significant postwar shifts in both domestic policy and international relations, formative influences on his later perspective. After completing his degree, he served in the United States Army during the Korean War, an experience that provided him with a deeper understanding of government and global affairs.

Career in journalism

Post began his journalism career in print before transitioning to the burgeoning medium of television news. He joined KOMO-TV, then an affiliate of the ABC network, where he quickly established himself as a serious reporter focused on state legislature proceedings and gubernatorial politics. His coverage of major events, such as the 1962 Seattle World's Fair and the political rise of figures like Senator Warren Magnuson, demonstrated his commitment to substantive reporting. This foundational period in commercial broadcasting prepared him for his subsequent move to the realm of public television, where he would make his most indelible mark.

Political commentary and analysis

For decades, Post was the preeminent political commentator in the Pacific Northwest, renowned for his "Post Script" segments and election night analysis. He provided in-depth coverage of every presidential election from Richard Nixon through Barack Obama, as well as countless Senate and House races in Washington. His commentary was characterized by a non-partisan, fact-based approach, earning the respect of politicians from both the Democratic and Republican parties, including Governors Dan Evans and Mike Lowry. He regularly moderated debates for pivotal offices and contributed analysis to national programs on the PBS network.

Public broadcasting contributions

Post's most defining work occurred during his long association with KCTS-TV, the PBS member station in Seattle. There, he created and hosted numerous public affairs programs that became essential viewing for engaged citizens, such as "KCTS Connects" and the annual "Washington State Voters' Guide." His presence helped elevate the stature of public television in the region as a critical forum for civic discourse. In recognition of his exceptional service to public broadcasting and his community, he received the national Edward R. Murrow Award from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, among many other honors from organizations like the Society of Professional Journalists.

Personal life and legacy

Outside of his professional life, Post was a devoted family man and an active member of the Seattle community. He was married to his wife, June, for over sixty years, and they raised their family in the Pacific Northwest. Rollin Post died in 2014, leaving behind a profound legacy as a journalist of integrity who educated generations of viewers on the workings of American democracy. His name remains attached to fellowships and awards in regional journalism, and he is remembered as a standard-bearer for ethical, insightful political reporting in the tradition of Edward R. Murrow and Walter Cronkite.

Category:American journalists Category:American political commentators Category:People from Seattle Category:University of Washington alumni