A journalism student at the University of Delaware had the opportunity to work for CNN during the Hunter Biden trial as a runner, delivering notes from reporters in the courtroom to a team of producers. Due to the strict policy on electronics at the J. Caleb Boggs Federal Building, which prohibited the use of laptops and phones, the student’s job as a runner was crucial in providing live updates from the trial to the world. Despite the challenges, including having to navigate three flights of stairs multiple times a day, the student found the experience to be one of the coolest of their life.
The student’s title of “runner” was literal, requiring them to physically run notes back and forth between the courtroom and the production team. This system of using runners was essential for CNN and other media outlets to maintain live updates during the trial. The student recalls the physically demanding nature of the job, evidenced by the blisters on their feet, but also the sense of accomplishment when delivering crucial updates to the producers. By the end of the trial, the student had developed relationships with the security guards and was proud to have been a part of such a significant event.
Despite the challenges and physical strain of the job, the student considers the experience of working as a runner for CNN during the Hunter Biden trial to be a valuable and rewarding one. The opportunity to be involved in such a high-profile court case and contribute to the media coverage of it was a meaningful experience for the student. The student reflects on the hard work and dedication required to fulfill their role as a runner and expresses gratitude for the chance to be a part of reporting on a major news event.
The student recounts the rigorous schedule and intense moments of the trial, including sprinting to deliver the verdict note to the producers. The demanding nature of the job as a runner for CNN during the trial tested the student’s physical endurance and organizational skills. Despite the challenges, the student found the experience to be exciting and fulfilling, providing valuable insight into the world of journalism and media coverage of significant events. The student expresses a desire to continue covering court cases in the future and considers their first trial to be a solid and memorable experience in their journalism career.
