Who did Helen Thomas work for? Helen Thomas, a renowned American journalist, spent the majority of her career working for United Press International (UPI). Born on August 4, 1920, in Winchester, Kentucky, Thomas began her journalism journey at a young age and went on to make significant contributions to the field. Her tenure at UPI spanned over five decades, making her one of the longest-serving journalists in the organization’s history.
Helen Thomas joined UPI in 1943 as a copygirl, a position that allowed her to gain valuable experience in the newsroom. Over the years, she worked her way up the ranks, eventually becoming the first female White House bureau chief in 1960. In this role, she covered eight U.S. presidents, including John F. Kennedy, Lyndon B. Johnson, Richard Nixon, Gerald Ford, Jimmy Carter, Ronald Reagan, George H.W. Bush, and Bill Clinton.
During her time at the White House, Thomas became known for her probing questions and unwavering commitment to journalism. She was not afraid to ask tough questions, which often put her at odds with some of the most powerful figures in the nation. Her work earned her numerous accolades, including the Presidential News Club’s Gold Medal for Excellence in Journalism and the National Press Club’s John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Award.
Despite her achievements, Thomas’s career was not without controversy. In 2010, during a White House press briefing, she made a remark about Israel that sparked a firestorm of criticism. Her comment, “Tell me where your Palestinian friends are,” led to her resignation from UPI. Although she later expressed regret for her words, the incident underscored the challenges journalists face in navigating the complexities of political and social issues.
After leaving UPI, Thomas continued to work as a freelance journalist and writer. She co-authored several books, including “Listen Up, Mr. President: Everything You Always Wanted to Know About the White House but Were Afraid to Ask,” which was published in 2007. Her work provided readers with an insider’s perspective on the White House and the political landscape of the United States.
Helen Thomas passed away on July 20, 2013, at the age of 92. Throughout her career, she made a lasting impact on the field of journalism, particularly in the realm of political reporting. Her dedication to uncovering the truth and her unwavering commitment to her craft have left an indelible mark on the industry. As a journalist who worked for United Press International for over five decades, Helen Thomas will always be remembered for her significant contributions to the world of journalism.
