A series of pictures that depicts a story line or single theme devoted to U.S. politics or a U.S. politician. 12 photos maximum.
First Place
Brendan Smialowski, Agence France-Presse
Polite men: The Ukraine problem for his predecessor was impeachment, for President Biden it is the possibility of war. Once the breadbasket of the Soviet Union, Ukraine is becoming a bowl of spoiled diplomatic fruit. Now considered a regional power by the west, Russian actions are causing international issues. Russia has become a cheap source of natural gas for Europe complicating NATO's obligations and promises to Russia's neighbors. President Obama declared Russia a regional power after the west failed to stop its annexation of Crimea. President Trump was impeached over his interactions over the phone with Ukraine's President Zelenskiy. President Biden continues to face off with President Putin but is running out of tools to influence the former nuclear superpower.
Second Place
Frank Thorp V, NBC News
After the Riot: Reflections on Jan. 6 from those inside the Capitol: After the Riot: Reflections on Jan. 6 from those inside the Capitol: When a mob attacked the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021, the world watched as the rioters entered the building, breaking windows and pushing through barriers. But it was more than just the physical space that was violated. The seat of government was occupied by hundreds of lawmakers, and their aides, building staff members, and journalists who say they continue to process the trauma of that day.
Third Place
Al Drago, Freelance
Manchin vs. the World: Everyone wants a piece of Joe Manchin. As the Democratic Senator from West Virginia, Manchin has consistently held up the Biden agenda and been the deciding vote on legislation, while the Democrats hold a 50-50 majority in a largely partisan Senate.
Award of Excellence
Doug Mills, New York Times
Biden’s first year: President Biden began his first year with the country’s Covid deaths near a half-a million deaths. He stumbled up the steps of Air Force One in early March and continued to have an unstable year. He asked all Americans to get vaccinated. He and members of his cabinet greeted the fallen soldiers who were killed in Afghanistan. Biden also visited the deadly tornados in Kentucky and got a pat on the back from his Vice President following a trip.
Award of Excellence
Tom Brenner, Freelance
:
Award of Excellence
Erin Schaff, New York Times
The Second Impeachment: Impeached for Inciting Insurrection: The lead impeachment manager in the trial of former President Donald J. Trump issued a warning as the proceedings began on Wednesday: not appropriate for young children. As the second impeachment trial of Mr. Trump was unfolding: House managers who were victims of the attack were speaking to senators who themselves had survived the violent assault. Around them were their staff who had cowered behind office desks as the mob rampaged through the building. Above them in the balcony, scribbling in notepads, were journalists who were equally traumatized and security officers who had been there to ward off the attackers.