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Top 3 AI Reporters at The New York Times (2026)

The New York Times shapes how millions understand artificial intelligence. These three journalists are leading AI coverage at one of the most influential publications—and they can help your AI company reach a massive audience.

HJ

When The New York Times covers your AI startup, the world takes notice. As a leading publication for technology and business news, The New York Times's AI reporting reaches decision-makers, investors, and industry leaders who shape the future of technology. For AI companies seeking visibility, these are the journalists you need to know.

Based on our proprietary database tracking 50,000+ reporters and millions of stories, we've identified the top 3 AI reporters at The New York Times. These journalists are actively covering AI and technology—and they're the ones who can help your AI company reach The New York Times's influential readership.

Each reporter profile includes their publication, beat details, and insights on what types of stories they're most likely to cover. Use this guide to find the right The New York Times journalist for your AI company pitch.

The New York Times's Top AI Reporters

1Emmett Lindner
The New York Times

Activity Stats

  • Total Stories: 138
  • Stories (30 days): 0
  • Avg per week: 1

Sections

  • Sections: politics, government, commerce, markets, defense, media

### STORY ANGLES: - Focuses on corporate accountability and the consequences of executive or company actions (e.g., Campbell’s executive departure, Tesla pay deal). - Highlights consumer behavior trends and their financial implications (e.g., shopping habits, student loan garnishments). - Explores regulatory or geopolitical impacts on businesses and industries (e.g., Lukoil sanctions, TikTok ownership changes). - Covers operational disruptions with broader implications (e.g., flight cancellations due to weather).

Why they matter: An focused AI and technology reporter at The New York Times with 138 total stories. Key voice in the The New York Times tech coverage that shapes industry narratives.

Best for: AI startups, politics, government, commerce, telescopes and observatories, space and astronomy companies, technology announcements

Telescopes and ObservatoriesSpace and AstronomyExtraterrestrial LifePrivate SpaceflightStars and Galaxies
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2Colby Smith
The New York Times

Activity Stats

  • Total Stories: 65
  • Stories (30 days): 0
  • Avg per week: 0.9

Sections

  • Sections: government, politics, markets, consumer, ai

### STORY ANGLES: - Focuses on political and economic intersections: Highlights how political figures and decisions impact economic policies and institutions. - Emphasizes leadership dynamics: Explores the personalities, loyalties, and decision-making of key figures like Fed chairs and economists. - Examines regulatory and institutional implications: Looks at how government actions affect central banking and broader economic systems.

Why they matter: An focused AI and technology reporter at The New York Times with 65 total stories. Key voice in the The New York Times tech coverage that shapes industry narratives.

Best for: AI startups, government, politics, markets, united states economy, united states politics and government companies, technology announcements

United States EconomyUnited States Politics and GovernmentInflation (Economics)Interest RatesCustoms (Tariff)
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3Sam Sifton
The New York Times

Activity Stats

  • Total Stories: 97
  • Stories (30 days): 0
  • Avg per week: 0.8

Sections

  • Sections: Briefing, Food

### STORY ANGLES: - Focuses on sociopolitical dynamics, often tying individual stories to broader political or cultural trends. - Explores controversial or polarizing topics, such as human trafficking, gun laws, and energy policies. - Highlights systemic challenges (e.g., American inertia, regulatory frameworks) with a critical lens. - Occasionally includes quirky or human-interest elements (e.g., Oval Office design, humanoid robots).

Why they matter: An focused AI and technology reporter at The New York Times with 97 total stories. Key voice in the The New York Times tech coverage that shapes industry narratives.

Best for: AI startups, , briefing, food, no company or organization names mentioned. companies, technology announcements

FoodBriefingNo company or organization names mentioned.
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How to Pitch The New York Times AI Reporters

The New York Times reporters cover hundreds of companies. To stand out, you need a newsworthy angle and a compelling pitch:

  • Funding news: Major funding rounds with notable investors get priority coverage
  • Product launches: New AI products with clear differentiation and traction data
  • Technical depth: AI reporters appreciate technical details—don't oversimplify your innovation
  • Exclusives matter: Offering an exclusive significantly increases your chances of coverage
  • Timing: Pitch 1-2 weeks before your news—The New York Times needs lead time for quality coverage

Why The New York Times Matters for AI Coverage

Coverage in The New York Times delivers unique benefits for AI startups:

  • Investor visibility: VCs and decision-makers read The New York Times—coverage gets you on their radar
  • Industry credibility: The New York Times coverage signals you're a company to watch
  • Talent attraction: Engineers and AI researchers follow The New York Times for industry news
  • SEO and discovery: The New York Times articles rank well and drive long-term traffic

Finding More AI Reporters

While The New York Times is essential for tech coverage, a comprehensive AI PR strategy includes multiple outlets. Consider building relationships across TechCrunch, The Verge, Wired, VentureBeat, and other tech publications.

To find reporters who match your specific AI company, use HeyJared's AI-powered search. Simply describe your startup and what you're building, and we'll match you with the most relevant AI reporters based on their recent coverage, beat alignment, and expertise.

Ready to Pitch AI Reporters?

HeyJared helps AI companies find the right reporters, craft compelling pitches, and build lasting media relationships. Our AI-powered platform matches you with journalists who actually cover your space.

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