Manu Raju, CNN’s Chief Congressional Correspondent, has been selected as the new host of the Sunday morning show “Inside Politics,” according to the network’s announcement. The Indian American journalist is taking over from Abby Phillips, who has been promoted to the 10 p.m. primetime slot. Raju’s responsibilities will extend to covering Capitol Hill while also heading the Sunday show. CNN emphasized that Raju’s extensive experience reporting from Washington will ensure the delivery of accurate breaking news and analysis on significant political stories, thanks to the contributions of adept reporters.
CNN’s declaration of these changes highlights their commitment to showcasing a diverse range of journalistic expertise. The network seeks to present shows led by esteemed journalists alongside opportunities for emerging talents within the organization.
Having established a prominent presence on the cable network, Raju has devoted several years to covering Capitol Hill, congressional races, and presidential campaigns. Prior to joining CNN, his career saw him serving as a senior congressional reporter at Politico, and before that, he covered Senate leadership for The Hill newspaper. His journalism journey began as a student reporter for the Badger Herald, further expanded through work at the student radio station WSUM. Graduating from UW-Madison in 2002 with a marketing degree, Raju’s roots trace back to suburban Chicago. He holds the University of Wisconsin dear to his heart, as evidenced in a 2018 blog where he expressed that it’s an integral part of his identity. His Twitter profile proudly labels him a “Wisconsin Badger for life.”
Acknowledging his contributions, Raju has garnered numerous journalism awards for his coverage of pivotal events in Washington and campaign politics. In 2012, he was among a quartet of reporters who received the Merriman Smith award from the White House Correspondents Association for their rapid coverage of the debt ceiling crisis. His coverage of the 2014 midterm elections earned him first prize from the Society of Professional Journalists in D.C. In addition, he secured a Folio: Eddie Award for his feature profile on Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.).
Raju resides in Northwest D.C. alongside his wife, Archana Mehta, and their twins.
