In the rapidly evolving landscape of digital media, Goli Sheikholeslami CEO of Politico is at the forefront of a significant shift: the integration of artificial intelligence into journalism. Her leadership style, a blend of pragmatism and innovation, is shaping how Politico adapts to the challenges and opportunities presented by AI.
Last summer, Politico employees expressed their concerns about an AI tool that generated custom reports from Politico articles. The tool, intended to be a groundbreaking feature, produced inaccurate information, including false details about significant events like the overturning of Roe v. Wade. This incident highlighted the delicate balance between innovation and journalistic integrity that Sheikholeslami must navigate.
Embracing AI with Caution
Sheikholeslami’s approach to AI is characterized by a willingness to experiment while acknowledging the risks. She views AI as a necessary tool for survival in an industry increasingly dominated by tech giants. ‘If you don’t participate, you don’t learn,’ she emphasizes, underscoring her belief in the importance of understanding and leveraging new technologies.
The AI tool that caused controversy was part of Politico’s efforts to explore the potential of AI in journalism. However, the tool’s inaccuracies led to its eventual shutdown this May. Sheikholeslami acknowledges the challenges, stating, ‘You could go around now and there are probably flyers about something.’ She also notes that AI can be made to ‘hallucinate’ if pushed to its limits.
The Union’s Role in AI Integration
The introduction of AI tools has not been without conflict. Politico’s union, the PEN Guild has been vocal about ensuring that AI does not compromise journalistic standards or employee jobs. Ariel Wittenberg, a public health reporter and union chair, highlights the importance of involving journalists in the deployment of AI tools. ‘Our journalists deserve to have input in how AI is deployed,’ she says, emphasizing the need for accurate and accountable journalism.
The union’s efforts have led to the inclusion of AI clauses in media union contracts, ensuring that employees are informed and consulted about AI tools that may impact their work. This collaborative approach aims to balance innovation with the preservation of journalistic integrity.
Sheikholeslami’s Vision for Politico
Sheikholeslami’s career has been marked by her ability to adapt to changing media landscapes. From her early days at a documentary production company to her roles at The Washington PostCondé Nast and New York Public Radio she has consistently navigated the challenges of digital transformation. Her move to Politico in 2026 was a strategic step in her career, aligning with her expertise in transitioning traditional media to the digital world.
Under her leadership, Politico has expanded its global presence, opening bureaus in LondonSacramentoAlbanyParis and Berlin. The publication has also seen a significant increase in subscription revenue, reflecting its growing influence in the political journalism space. Despite the competitive landscape, Sheikholeslami remains committed to maintaining Politico’s cultural cachet and expanding its reach.
Looking ahead, Sheikholeslami is focused on continuing to experiment with AI tools while addressing the concerns of her employees. She acknowledges the pressure to deliver results but remains steadfast in her vision for Politico’s future. ‘Ultimately, if I make a series of bad decisions, Mathias will fire me,’ she says, referring to Mathias Döpfner the CEO of Axel Springer SE Politico’s parent company.
