Deseret News reporter Cami Mondements, an alumna of Westminster University, recently shared her professional journey covering Congress in Washington, D.C., while detailing strategies for identifying misinformation during high-stakes election cycles.
Navigating a Turbulent Career
In an article published in The Westminster Review, Mondeaux, a member of the university's 2021 honors class, reflected on starting her journalism career during a period of significant national upheaval. She noted that her first professional role coincided with the 2019 impeachment of Donald Trump, followed closely by the global COVID-19 pandemic and the 2020 presidential election.
After relocating to Washington, D.C., to cover Congress, Mondeaux described the intense nature of reporting on the nation's capital. Her work has involved significant time spent in the halls of Congress, tracking members of Congress through hallways, and observing meetings involving major world leaders, including President Joe Biden and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
Challenges of Modern Reporting
Mondeaux described the experience of reporting in D.C. as both "exhilarating" and "exhausting." She noted that the modern news environment in the capital is characterized by constant change and intense pressure to be the first to report breaking developments.
She further observed that the top issues facing the country have become increasingly partisan and difficult to navigate. As she looked toward the 202 and described the potential for tense election cycles, Mondeaux noted that political divides and personal attacks often dominate public conversation.
Strategies for Finding Truth
Addressing the rise of social media and rapid-fire headlines, Mondeaux provided specific advice for readers attempting to navigate misinformation. She warned that if a news claim appears too good to be true, it likely is, noting that misinformation often spreads rapidly when claims are emotionally charged or designed to appeal to a reader's existing beliefs.
To combat this, she recommended that voters look for reporters who provide direct links to original documents and those who quote lawmakers in full rather than relying on catchy soundbites. She emphasized the importance of journalists who offer context by explaining the history behind current events and providing a platform for diverse perspectives.
The Role of an Informed Electorate
Mondeaux stated that her primary mission as a reporter is to ensure the electorate remains informed despite the urge to disengage from a divisive news cycle. She expressed a belief that journalists should not tell audiences what to think, but rather provide them with the information necessary to decide for themselves.
She argued that an informed electorate is essential for fostering passionate activism and informed leadership, warning that without accurate knowledge, progress on pressing national issues risks stalling.
Fellowship and Professional Growth
In addition to her reflections on journalism, Mondeaux announced a significant professional milestone regarding her ongoing development in Washington reporting. According to a post on X, Mondeaux shared that she would be participating in the 2026 class of the National Press Foundation (NPF) Paul Miller Fellowship.
The announcement, made in December 2025, highlighted her selection as one of 20 journalists chosen for the prestigious program. The Paul Miller Washington Reporting Fellowship is a long-standing initiative that has assisted rising reporters in navigating the complexities of D.C.-based reporting for nearly four decades.
About The Westminster Review
The Westminster Review, which published Mondeaux's reflections, serves as the bi-annual alumni magazine for Westminster University. The publication is intended to update alumni and community members on campus events and highlight the achievements of the university's students, professors, and graduates.
