Celebrating 30 Years of The Hill: A Journey Through Cybersecurity Reporting
As The Hill celebrates its 30th anniversary, it’s an opportune moment to reflect on the transformative experiences that have shaped the careers of its reporters. One such journey is that of Katie Bo Lillis, who began her career at The Hill in 2015, covering cybersecurity during a pivotal time in American politics. Her story is not just about personal growth but also about the evolution of a beat that has become increasingly significant in our digital age.
A Leap of Faith
When Bob Cusack, the editor-in-chief of The Hill, hired Lillis, it was a gamble. She was a fresh-faced reporter with limited knowledge of Congress and cybersecurity, a field that was still emerging as a critical area of national security. However, this leap of faith would soon prove to be a fortuitous decision. Just months into her tenure, the Democratic National Committee hack occurred, marking the beginning of the “Russia investigations” era. Suddenly, cybersecurity was thrust into the spotlight, and Lillis found herself at the center of one of the most consequential stories in Washington.
The Thrill of the Chase
The excitement of being in the right place at the right time cannot be overstated. Lillis describes the adrenaline rush of reporting on a story that was not only timely but also crucial for national security. With the support of her editors, she was able to dive deep into the complexities of cybersecurity, navigating the cold marble floors of the Capitol and the classified spaces of the House and Senate Intelligence Committees. This experience was not just about gathering information; it was about honing her skills as a reporter under pressure, a rite of passage that many journalists can relate to.
Learning from the Best
At The Hill, Lillis was surrounded by seasoned reporters who became her mentors. Working in a cramped, windowless office affectionately dubbed “the cave,” she learned the intricacies of political reporting from colleagues like Scott Wong and Mike Lillis (who would later become her husband). Their collaborative discussions on story construction and reporting strategies provided her with invaluable insights into the world of journalism. This environment fostered a culture of learning and growth, emphasizing the importance of fairness, balance, and truth in reporting.
A Career Transformed
Lillis’s time at The Hill was not just about covering cybersecurity; it was about discovering her passion for national security reporting. Her first significant scoop—a story about a dual Saudi-American citizen held in military detention—was a turning point. It was the kind of story she had always wanted to write, and The Hill provided her with the platform to do so. This experience solidified her commitment to journalism and set her on a path that would lead her to cover the Pentagon for Defense One and eventually intelligence for CNN.
The Importance of Flexibility
One of the key takeaways from Lillis’s journey is the importance of flexibility in a reporter’s career. She advises young journalists not to stress over meticulously planning their career paths. Instead, they should embrace the opportunities that come their way, as unexpected stories can lead to new and exciting directions. Lillis’s own career trajectory exemplifies this philosophy; she started in a niche area and found herself at the forefront of national security reporting during a critical time.
A Lasting Legacy
As Lillis reflects on her time at The Hill, she expresses pride in being part of a scrappy, intelligent, and tenacious team. The experiences she gained there not only shaped her career but also contributed to the broader narrative of cybersecurity in American politics. As The Hill continues to evolve, it remains a vital source of news and analysis, adapting to the changing landscape of journalism and the issues that matter most to its readers.
In conclusion, Katie Bo Lillis’s journey at The Hill is a testament to the power of opportunity, mentorship, and the unpredictable nature of journalism. As the publication celebrates its 30th anniversary, it is stories like hers that highlight the impact of dedicated reporting in an ever-changing world. For aspiring journalists, her experience serves as a reminder that sometimes, the best stories—and the most fulfilling careers—are found in the most unexpected places.