S2 Ep2030: POLITICAL SPOTLIGHT Michael Van Sickler, Tampa Bay Times

Lunchtime Conversation host Nanette Wiser welcomed back to studio Michael Van Sickler, the Political Editor for the Tampa Bay Times, helping our listeners navigate the key issues and political races in Tampa Bay.  In his profile, he writes about how he came to this role and passion: "Ever since I was a kid, I was a politics junkie. It was a way for me to relate to my dad, and we’d spend hours at the dinner table talking Reagan, Bush and Clinton. My interest in politics no doubt led to my poli sci major in college and then a career in journalism. Even when my beat or job didn’t hinge on politics, it was never too far. I’ve been at the Times for more than 20 years. As a reporter, I’ve covered everything from suburban sprawl (there’s politics in that) to the mortgage fraud that fueled the Great Recession (that got pretty political). I covered St. Petersburg as the city hall reporter and Florida’s Capitol under Gov. Rick Scott . As an editor, I’ve run our news coverage during some of the most divisive times our nation has ever faced. Now I’m back reporting on all things politics. Local. State. Federal. Send me tips, rants or keen assessments. I’m on it."  Read more of his articles here.#michaelvansickler #politicaleditor #tampabaytimes #nanettewiser #politicalfacts #understandingpolitics  #stpete #stpetefl  #tampabay #radio #radiostpete #cityofstpete  #dtsp #downtownstpete