News Summary
Laura Leslie, a veteran in North Carolina journalism, has been appointed as the new editor of NC Newsline, effective September 29. Succeeding Rob Schofield, she brings 21 years of experience covering state politics and aims to enhance the organization’s reporting on public policies crucial to North Carolina residents. Her leadership signals a shift towards nonprofit journalism as traditional media faces challenges. NC Newsline is dedicated to providing in-depth, transparent coverage on governmental affairs.
Raleigh, North Carolina — Laura Leslie Appointed Editor of NC Newsline
Laura Leslie, a seasoned veteran in North Carolina journalism, has been named editor of NC Newsline, a prominent nonprofit news organization dedicated to in-depth state reporting. Her appointment will take effect on September 29, 2025, succeeding Rob Schofield, who retired in August after eight years in the role.
About NC Newsline and Its Mission
NC Newsline operates as part of States Newsroom, the largest nonprofit organization providing state-focused journalism across the United States. It has headquarters in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, and Washington, D.C.. The organization aims to deliver detailed coverage on public policy issues impacting residents, with a focus on transparency and accountability in government activities.
Leslie’s Career and Experience
Leslie’s appointment highlights her extensive career in North Carolina politics journalism. She previously served as capitol bureau chief at WRAL in Raleigh for 14 years. During her time there, she played a key role in launching NC Capitol, a multimedia initiative dedicated to state politics and government policies, notable as the first venture of its kind by a TV station in the country.
Before her tenure at WRAL, Leslie was the capitol bureau chief at WUNC public radio for seven years. Overall, she has accumulated 21 years of experience covering North Carolina politics, establishing her as a deep expert on state issues and political developments.
Achievements and Recognitions
Throughout her career, Leslie has received numerous awards and honors. She is an Emmy Award winner and has been recognized by the Associated Press and various journalism organizations for her professional contributions. Her reputation is rooted in her thorough reporting, insight into policy matters, and commitment to public service journalism.
Leadership and Future Outlook
Chris Fitzsimon, CEO of States Newsroom, expressed confidence in Leslie’s ability to enhance the quality and scope of political coverage in North Carolina. The transition marks a strategic move by States Newsroom to leverage Leslie’s experience in strengthening its journalism efforts amid ongoing challenges facing traditional media outlets.
Leslie’s last day at WRAL was September 5, 2025. Her move aligns with a broader industry trend where veteran journalists are shifting to nonprofit news organizations, which have increasingly become vital sources of investigative and policy reporting as traditional outlets face financial pressures and shrinking newsrooms.
Role and Responsibilities
As editor of NC Newsline, Leslie will oversee coverage of state legislative activity, government policies, and public affairs pertinent to North Carolina residents. Her leadership is expected to expand and deepen the organization’s reporting capacity, ensuring residents receive factual, in-depth information about issues that directly impact their lives.
Background Context
The move by Leslie reflects ongoing shifts within the journalism industry, where experienced reporters are seeking opportunities in nonprofit sectors to sustain high-quality journalism. The appointment also aims to address the needs of North Carolinians for transparent and comprehensive coverage of their state government and policy developments.
NC Newsline remains committed to providing factual, unbiased reporting in a landscape increasingly challenged by economic and digital transformation. The organization’s expansion under Leslie’s leadership will likely focus on investigative journalism, policy analysis, and community engagement to serve the public interest effectively.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- NC Newsline: Laura Leslie Named Editor
- Wikipedia: Journalism
- Business NC: Top WRAL Reporter Moves
- Google Search: North Carolina politics
- News Observer: Warm TV Blog
- Google Scholar: North Carolina journalism
- Business NC: Various Categories
- Encyclopedia Britannica: News Reporting
- NC Newsline: Dana Cope Facing Questions
- Google News: North Carolina news
- NC Newsline: Top of the Morning
- NC Newsline: National Attention on Sea Level Rise
Author: STAFF HERE RALEIGH WRITER
RALEIGH STAFF WRITER The RALEIGH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERaleigh.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Raleigh, Wake County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the North Carolina State Fair, Raleigh Arts Festival, and the Hopscotch Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Raleigh Chamber of Commerce and Visit Raleigh, plus leading businesses in technology and education that power the local economy such as Red Hat and NC State University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
