Stephen Hayes

CEO & Editor, The Dispatch; NBC News Contributor and Author
Stephen Hayes in a professional headshot, wearing a black blazer and white shirt, standing outdoors with a blurred urban background.
  • Renowned center right political journalist whose commentary and insights are a must read for those looking to understand the inner workings of Washington
  • Author of two New York Times best sellers: Cheney: The Untold Story of America’s Most Powerful and Controversial Vice President and The Connection: How al Qaeda’s Collaboration with Saddam Hussein Has Endangered America.
  • Pairs more than three decades worth of political knowledge with up to the minute conversations with political and national security leaders to cut through the noise and offer actionable insight on critical policy and political issues
  • Presents a fair take on politics and current events—whether delivering a solo presentation or engaging in discussions alongside other thought leaders

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Stephen Hayes is a renowned veteran journalist and sought-after speaker known for his ability to engage audiences in thoughtful, balanced conversations about politics, policy, and global affairs. A conservative commentator who carefully examines both sides of the political spectrum, Hayes provides fact-based analysis that fosters meaningful dialogue. His daily conversations with the nation’s top political and national security leaders and deep understanding of national and international trends allow him to speak with authority on a wide range of policy issues, offering audiences a nuanced perspective on the forces shaping the political landscape.  

As the CEO and Editor of The Dispatch, a digital media platform committed to principled, fact-driven journalism, Hayes continues to shape political dialogue with his rigorous reporting. Previously, he served as editor-in-chief of The Weekly Standard and has been a commentator on Fox News Channel and CNN, offering expert insights into the complexities of governance, foreign policy, and national security. Exclusively represented by Leading Authorities speakers bureau, his work has influenced critical discussions on issues ranging from U.S. foreign relations and geopolitical maneuvering to the future of the Republican Party. Through his direct engagement with top political and security leaders, Hayes provides audiences with an insider’s view of Washington’s inner workings and the global implications of U.S. policy decisions. 

Beyond his journalistic contributions, Hayes is a New York Times bestselling author and an established media presence. He is currently an NBC News contributor and was a key member of CNN’s Peabody Award-winning political team during the 2008 elections. His media appearances span NPR, ABC, CBS, NBC, The Daily Show with Jon Stewart, and HBO’s Real Time with Bill Maher. With a reputation for integrity, balance, and insightful analysis, Hayes remains a respected voice in political journalism, helping audiences navigate the complexities of modern politics with clarity and depth. 

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The Trump Administration: Making Sense of Politics and Governance Today. As the Trump administration takes center stage once again, Washington faces a new phase of policy shifts, governance challenges, and evolving political dynamics. With a focus on reshaping domestic and foreign policy, the administration’s decisions will have lasting implications for the economy, national security, and the balance of power in Congress. Veteran journalist and Washington insider Stephen Hayes offers a clear, objective analysis of the key players, legislative priorities, and political strategies shaping this era. 

Breaking Through the Noise: Trust and the Media. In an era of 24/7 news cycles and social media echo chambers, trust in journalism and politics is at an all-time low. Stephen Hayes explores the challenges facing today’s media landscape, from misinformation and partisan bias to the growing disconnect between the press and the public. With a long career in journalism and on-the-ground reporting, Stephen Hayes examines how audiences can become more discerning consumers of news and how the media can work to rebuild credibility in an age of skepticism. 

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