APME Best Reporter submission - Nick Castele

Nick Castele covers politics, government and general news for Ideastream Public Media. This year, he reported, wrote, produced and hosted an 18-episode weekly podcast on the Cleveland mayoral race entitled, After Jackson: Cleveland’s Next Mayor.

The incumbent mayor, Frank Jackson, chose to retire rather than seek a fifth term in office, setting up a 7-way contest to succeed him. It was the city’s biggest mayoral race in 16 years.

The race drew well-known political figures like former U.S. Rep. Dennis Kucinich – and newcomers like 34-year-old Justin Bibb, who would go on to win.

Nick also moderated two mayoral candidate debates which were broadcast on radio and television.

Included in this submission is coverage of that mayoral race, as well as additional political and COVID-19 reporting.