Laura Barron-Lopez to MC 35th First Amendment Awards

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, January 28, 2026 | 2:51pm CT

Laura Barron-Lopez

The RTDNA Foundation announced that award-winning journalist Laura Barron-Lopez will serve as Master of Ceremonies for the 35th annual First Amendment Awards on March 12 at the Watergate Hotel in Washington, DC.

The First Amendment Awards recognize individuals and organizations that demonstrate responsible journalism and uphold the constitutional duty to seek and report the truth.

"We are thrilled to have Laura Barron-Lopez as the emcee for this year's First Amendment Awards," said RTDNA Foundation President Tara Puckey. "Laura's dedication to fearless, fact-based reporting and her deep understanding of the forces shaping our democracy make her the perfect voice to guide our celebration of the First Amendment."

Barron-Lopez currently reports for MS NOW, where her recent work has focused on topics including presidential judicial appointments, the White House's interactions with national security officials and federal agencies, and other political developments.

Before joining MS NOW, she served as White House Correspondent for the PBS NewsHour and worked as a political analyst for CNN. At POLITICO, she covered the Biden administration, concentrating on power dynamics between the White House and Congress and reporting on key issues such as gun violence, immigration, voting rights and infrastructure.

The First Amendment Awards ceremony will also honor this year's recipients, celebrating exceptional contributions to journalism.