This seminar will explore the rapidly changing relationship between the news media, political communication and governing. Washington offers the perfect backdrop with the opportunity to visit iconic institutions, such as the White House Press Room, Washington Post and Newseum, as well as the chance to witness up close the work of journalists, politicians and other political communicators at the top of their profession. Students will keep abreast of current political news in addition to readings on the practice and history of political journalism, communication and propaganda. Each student will complete an original research project, some of which may be adapted for publication in a California news outlet. The course is designed particularly, though not exclusively, for students interning at news organizations, political press offices, speechwriting groups, public relations firms or those with a passion for writing or politics. The instructor is veteran journalist Marc Sandalow, former Washington Bureau Chief for the San Francisco Chronicle, political analyst, and the author of a biography on House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.