As a journalist covering the 2024 election, Caitlin Huey-Burns found herself grappling with the dual responsibilities of her career and motherhood. In a poignant article, she reflects on the challenges and joys of balancing her work as a political correspondent for CBS News with the demands of raising two young sons.
On a late August afternoon, Caitlin prepared to interview former President Donald Trump, a high-profile figure in the political landscape. However, her mind was also preoccupied with thoughts of her toddler, who was about to start preschool. As she stood in a manufacturing facility in Pennsylvania, awaiting the interview, the guilt of missing out on her son’s orientation and other important milestones weighed heavily on her.
Having covered four presidential campaigns prior to this one, Caitlin acknowledged that this election held a special significance for her as a mother. The juxtaposition of witnessing historic events while being absent for key moments in her children’s lives was a constant source of inner conflict. Despite the excitement of her career, she grappled with the reality of being away from her family during crucial times.
Motherhood had reshaped Caitlin’s perspective on politics and elections, instilling in her a deeper sense of empathy and concern for the issues affecting families like hers. The soaring costs of childcare, the uncertainties of the future, and the desire for a better life for their children were prevalent themes among the American electorate. As a mother, Caitlin was acutely aware of these challenges and sought to amplify the voices of those struggling to make ends meet.
During her interview with Trump, Caitlin broached the topic of the child tax credit, a subject close to her heart as a parent juggling financial responsibilities. She shared her personal experiences of fertility treatments, postpartum depression, and the privileges she enjoyed as a working mother with a supportive partner and reliable childcare. Recognizing the disparities in access to resources, Caitlin lamented the injustices faced by many women in similar situations.
As she traversed the campaign trail, Caitlin encountered voters from diverse backgrounds, each with their own stories and struggles. She listened intently to their concerns, recognizing the courage it took for them to open up to a stranger in the hopes of effecting change. Amidst the whirlwind of political events, Caitlin found solace in connecting with ordinary Americans and amplifying their voices through her reporting.
Despite the demands of her job, Caitlin remained deeply connected to her children, finding ways to bridge the physical distance through video calls, small gestures, and mementos from her travels. From FaceTiming her sons during the Republican National Convention to ordering Halloween costumes from a press plane, she strived to maintain a sense of closeness with her family amidst her professional obligations.
As her youngest son prepared to take his first steps, Caitlin reflected on the delicate balance of motherhood and journalism. While she hoped to be present for this milestone, she also acknowledged the inevitability of missing some moments due to her job. Ultimately, Caitlin embraced both roles as a mother and a journalist, viewing them as the greatest honors of her life.
In conclusion, Caitlin Huey-Burns’ journey as a political correspondent and a mother exemplifies the complexities of modern-day motherhood and career pursuits. Through her introspective narrative, she sheds light on the challenges, joys, and sacrifices inherent in balancing professional aspirations with personal responsibilities. Her story serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience and dedication required to navigate the intricate tapestry of work and family life in today’s fast-paced world.
