NEW YORK — Major news organizations including The Associated Press and Reuters claimed top honors at Monday’s 2026 Pulitzer Prize ceremony, with their investigative journalism taking center stage.
The Associated Press earned the international reporting prize for a comprehensive investigation revealing how American corporations have helped build China’s extensive citizen surveillance and monitoring network. The three-year investigation involved analyzing thousands of documents and conducting extensive interviews.
The AP’s reporting also uncovered how multiple presidential administrations permitted technology companies and Chinese officials to circumvent rules designed to prevent China from obtaining sensitive materials like sophisticated computer chips.
Reuters captured recognition for examining Trump’s expansion of presidential power through federal government resources and supporter networks to target political opponents, according to award judges.
Reuters claimed a second prize in the restored beat reporting category for their coverage of social media company Meta.
The Minneapolis-based Minnesota Star Tribune won the breaking news award for their coverage of a tragic mass shooting at a local Catholic school last year.
Award judges commended the newspaper’s “thoroughness and compassion” while reporting on the devastating incident in their community. The shooting occurred during the school’s opening Mass of the academic year, resulting in two children’s deaths and injuries to more than a dozen others. The gunman was later discovered dead from an apparent suicide.
Monday’s Pulitzer announcement via livestream occurred just over a week following a security incident at the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner in Washington, where an armed individual breached a checkpoint and engaged in gunfire with Secret Service personnel. The suspect faces charges for attempting to assassinate Trump, who was making his first presidential appearance at the event.
The journalism Pulitzers recognize 2025 work by American news websites, newspapers, magazines, and wire services across text, photography, and audio formats. Video and graphics may supplement entries, with television and radio station websites eligible when focusing on written content.
Monday’s ceremony also recognized achievements in literature, music, and theater.
Established through newspaper publisher Joseph Pulitzer’s estate, the awards debuted in 1917. Recipients earn $15,000, while the distinguished public service winner receives a gold medal.
The Columbia University-based Pulitzer Board makes final selections. Julie Pace, The Associated Press’ executive editor, recently joined the board.
