Follow me @hannahmeisel

A reporter covering Illinois government and politics since 2014, she has quickly become one of the most respected and visible journalists at the Capitol. Before joining CNI in January 2023, Hannah worked for a variety of outlets from NPR affiliate stations to a startup newsletter. She’s an alum of the Public Affairs Reporting master’s program at the University of Illinois - Springfield and loves being an “aunt” to an ever-growing number of her friends’ kids. She’s always listening to a podcast or audiobook. Oh, and she was voted “Class Clown” in high school.

BACK POCKET “FUN FACT”: Hannah was voted “Class Clown” in high school, which means she’s never lost for a “fun fact” during ice breaker activities.

WHEN SHE’S NOT WORKING WITH CNI: Hannah tries to squeeze in as much time as possible with family and friends and takes pride in being an honorary aunt to an ever-growing number of their kids. She’s always listening to a podcast or audiobook, which she pairs with hobbies like sewing and “hiking” (OK, fine – walking; we live in Illinois, after all).

WHY SHE JOINED CNI: To help shape Capitol News Illinois’ next phase as a rapidly growing news organization and help position CNI as a leader in coverage of state government and politics.

WHAT SHE WANTS YOU TO KNOW ABOUT CNI: CNI reporters believe in reporting smart, nuanced stories, and believe news coverage should never be “dumbed down” for any audience.

WHERE SHE SEES CNI IN THE FUTURE: As an outlet striving to set the standard in all kinds of coverage about Illinois politics and government from the legislative process to investigative journalism.

Learn more about the Capitol News Illinois Team