Laura Kalam, an ERR correspondent based in the U.S. since January 1, 2024, has given insights into the pressures faced by reporters at the White House. She highlights that while she has access to press conferences, it often requires her to be assertive and loud to get her questions heard. This dynamic is exacerbated in a busy election year filled with breaking news, forcing correspondents to remain vigilant and ready to respond at a moment's notice.

Kalam reflects on the intensity of her new role, acknowledging that the pace of news has been brisk since the start of the election year. Despite initial expectations for a year filled with significant developments, she notes that the subsequent years might prove even more hectic. As news abounds, the stress of constantly being on alert takes a toll, leading her to feel like she cannot afford to rest, as the next major news story could arise unexpectedly at any time.

The pressure to stay informed and responsive highlights the unique challenges faced by journalists covering high-stakes political environments in the U.S. Press conferences can be competitive arenas where assertiveness can make the difference between being heard or overlooked, emphasizing the skills necessary for successfully navigating the complex landscape of American media.