Chad Pergram Age: Fox News Correspondent’s Bio & Career
Chad Pergram is 56 years old, born on March 5, 1969, in Jacksonburg, Ohio. He currently serves as a senior congressional correspondent for Fox News Channel.
Early Life and Background
Chad Pergram was born and raised in Jacksonburg, Ohio, a tiny incorporated village with a population of just 52 people. This small-town upbringing would later influence his approach to journalism, particularly in his ability to connect with everyday Americans while covering complex political stories. Growing up in such a small community likely gave Pergram a unique perspective on American life outside the Washington beltway, something that would serve him well in his future career covering national politics.
His birthdate of March 5, 1969, places him at 56 years old as of 2025. This means he has accumulated over three decades of experience in journalism, starting from his high school days and continuing through his current position at Fox News. His age and extensive experience have positioned him as one of the most knowledgeable and respected journalists covering Congress today.
Education and Academic Achievements
Pergram’s academic journey began with his undergraduate studies at Miami University in Ohio, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Political Science in 1991. This foundation in political science provided him with the theoretical knowledge of government systems and political processes that would later become essential in his reporting career.
Not content with just an undergraduate education, Pergram continued his studies at the same institution, earning a master’s degree in Communication in 1993. This dual educational background in both political science and communications gave him a powerful combination of skills: understanding the complexities of politics while possessing the ability to communicate these complexities clearly to a general audience.
His connection to his alma mater remains strong, as he later developed and now directs Miami University’s Inside Washington Program. This program, which Pergram himself describes as his brainchild, gives students the opportunity to experience Washington D.C. firsthand through internships and meetings with key political figures. His role in creating this program demonstrates his commitment to nurturing the next generation of political journalists and analysts.
Professional Career
Early Career Beginnings
Chad Pergram’s journalism career began remarkably early, while he was still in high school. He started as an intern at WKRC-AM in Cincinnati, where he quickly progressed to roles as a reporter and anchor. This early start gave him valuable hands-on experience in broadcast journalism before he had even completed his formal education.
After his initial experience at WKRC-AM, Pergram also worked at WKRC-TV, expanding his skills from radio to television broadcasting. This versatility across different media platforms would become a hallmark of his career. Following these positions, he joined WMUB-FM, a public radio station in Oxford, Ohio, further diversifying his experience in broadcast journalism.
His talent was recognized early, as evidenced by his being named Best Radio Reporter by the Ohio Associated Press in 1992. This award, received when he was just in his early twenties, signaled the promising career that was to follow. He also received statewide awards for Best Use of Sound, Best Investigative Reporting, and Best Broadcast Writing, demonstrating his all-around excellence in the field.
Career Advancement in Washington D.C.
Pergram’s career took a significant turn when he moved to Washington D.C., the epicenter of American political journalism. In 1993, he became a Senate producer for C-SPAN, a position that immersed him in the day-to-day operations of Congress and gave him unparalleled access to the legislative process.
Following his time at C-SPAN, Pergram produced and anchored newscasts for National Public Radio (NPR) in Washington. This experience at a national news organization further elevated his profile and expanded his audience. Before joining Fox News, he also worked as a reporter for Capitol News Connection, continuing to build his expertise in congressional reporting.
His move to Fox News Channel came in September 2007, when he joined as the senior producer for the House of Representatives. This role allowed him to combine his extensive knowledge of Congress with his production skills, creating comprehensive coverage of House activities for Fox News viewers.
Current Role at Fox News
In a significant career advancement, Chad Pergram was promoted from Capitol Hill producer to congressional correspondent at Fox News. This promotion recognized his exceptional reporting skills and deep knowledge of congressional procedures and politics.
As a senior congressional correspondent for Fox News Channel based in Washington D.C., Pergram provides insightful analysis and reporting on the activities of the United States Congress. His coverage spans a wide range of issues, from legislative debates to the impact of policy decisions on everyday Americans.
Pergram’s reporting style is characterized by his ability to explain complex legislative processes in accessible terms, making the workings of Congress understandable to viewers. His deep sources throughout the halls of Congress have made him a valuable asset to Fox News, particularly in breaking news situations related to legislative developments.
Notable Coverage and Achievements
Major Political Events Covered
Throughout his tenure at Fox News, Pergram has covered numerous historical moments from Capitol Hill. His reporting has included comprehensive coverage of the 2010 and 2018 midterm elections, providing viewers with insights into the shifting political landscape and its implications for legislative priorities.
He has also reported on significant judicial confirmations, including the contentious hearings for Supreme Court Justices Brett Kavanaugh and Neil Gorsuch. These high-profile confirmations required careful reporting of both the legal issues at stake and the political dynamics surrounding the nominations.
The 2016 presidential election cycle was another major focus of Pergram’s reporting, as he covered the impact of the campaign on congressional races and the preparations for a new administration’s legislative agenda. His experience covering multiple election cycles has given him a valuable historical perspective on American politics.
Pergram has also reported on key legislative developments, including the 2010 passage of both the Affordable Care Act and Dodd-Frank Wall Street reform, the 2011 debt-ceiling fight, and tax reform in 2017. His coverage of the 2018-2019 government shutdown, the longest in U.S. history, demonstrated his ability to explain complex budget negotiations and their impact on government operations.
Breaking News and Special Coverage
One of Pergram’s most notable moments came in May 2011, when he was the first journalist to confirm the death of Osama bin Laden on the air. This breaking news moment highlighted his connections and ability to verify critical information quickly and accurately.
In 2017, Pergram covered a shooting that occurred at a baseball practice for Republican members of Congress in Alexandria, Virginia, which happened to be near his residence. The attack critically wounded then-House Majority Whip Rep. Steve Scalise and injured several others. Pergram led the breaking news coverage and followed the story throughout Scalise’s recovery, demonstrating his ability to report on unexpected events with clarity and sensitivity.
Awards and Recognition
Pergram’s exceptional reporting has earned him several prestigious awards throughout his career. In 2006, he received the Joan S. Barone Award for Excellence in National Affairs/Public Policy Broadcast Journalism from the Radio/Television Correspondents Association. This honor is particularly significant as Pergram was the youngest recipient of the award and the first radio reporter to be honored in 12 years.
In 2007, he won an Edward R. Murrow Award for Excellence in Reporting for his story detailing the final days in Congress of former House Majority Leader Tom DeLay. This award, named after the legendary broadcast journalist, is one of the most respected honors in the field.
His influence extends to social media as well, with @ChadPergram being named “the most-followed journalist on Twitter by members of Congress” in 2017. This distinction highlights his relevance and credibility among the very lawmakers he covers.
Personal Life and Interests
Family and Relationships
Chad Pergram is married to Carrie Giddins Pergram, a Political Consultant and Professor of Political Communications. The couple tied the knot in November 2011 in a private wedding ceremony. Their shared background in political communications likely gives them a common professional language and understanding of the demands of careers in this field.
Pergram has maintained privacy regarding his parents and potential siblings, keeping these aspects of his personal life away from the public eye. This discretion about his family background is notable for someone who works in the public sphere of national news.
Hobbies and Personal Interests
Outside of his professional life, Pergram has several notable personal interests. He is an avid snow skier who has enjoyed skiing in various locations including the Alps and Canadian Rockies. This hobby suggests a love of outdoor activities and travel that provides balance to his work-focused life in Washington D.C.
Impressively, Pergram holds a Second Degree Black Belt in Tae Kwon Do, demonstrating his dedication to martial arts training and physical discipline. This achievement requires years of consistent practice and commitment, revealing a persistent and focused aspect of his character.
He resides in Alexandria, Virginia, with his Welsh Corgi named Hampton. His humorous description of Hampton as “vile” in his biography suggests a playful relationship with his pet and offers a glimpse of Pergram’s personality outside his serious professional demeanor.
Pergram has also served as a pre-game, in-game, and post-game host for the Washington Capitals Radio Network, indicating his interest in hockey and sports broadcasting. This work outside his primary political reporting shows his versatility as a broadcaster and his ability to cover diverse subject matter.
Impact and Legacy
Contribution to Journalism
Chad Pergram’s approach to congressional reporting has been characterized by his desire to help viewers “look beneath the Dome to see how the machinery of Congress works.” This philosophy has guided his coverage, making complex legislative processes accessible to the general public.
His reporting style combines deep factual knowledge with engaging storytelling. Pergram has compiled several “day-in-the-life” reports detailing what lawmakers do all day, including once going running at 4:45 a.m. with a senator in 20-degree weather. These behind-the-scenes glimpses humanize politicians and give viewers insight into the real workings of government beyond official statements and votes.
Pergram’s longevity in covering Congress has given him historical perspective that enriches his reporting. Having covered multiple administrations, election cycles, and major legislative battles, he can place current events in context and identify patterns that might escape less experienced journalists.
Educational Influence
Perhaps one of Pergram’s most lasting contributions is his role in creating Miami University’s Inside Washington Program. As the self-proclaimed “genesis” of this program, he has helped shape the educational experiences of countless students interested in politics and journalism.
The program, which began as a summer internship opportunity in 1998, has expanded significantly over the years. It now offers semester-based programs and gives students the chance to meet influential figures in Washington while gaining practical experience through internships. Under Pergram’s guidance, the program has become one of the premier study programs at Miami University.
By teaching a seminar in Washington for his alma mater on the confluence of media and politics, Pergram directly shares his expertise with the next generation of journalists and political communicators. This educational work ensures that his knowledge and approach to political reporting will influence journalism practice well beyond his own career.
FAQs
How old is Chad Pergram?
Chad Pergram is 56 years old as of 2025. He was born on March 5, 1969, in Jacksonburg, Ohio.
What is Chad Pergram’s educational background?
Chad Pergram earned a bachelor’s degree in Political Science in 1991 and a master’s degree in Communication in 1993, both from Miami University in Ohio.
How tall is Chad Pergram?
Chad Pergram stands at a height of 5 feet and 11 inches (1.8 meters).
When did Chad Pergram join Fox News?
Chad Pergram joined Fox News Channel in September 2007 as a senior producer for the House of Representatives before being promoted to congressional correspondent.
Is Chad Pergram married?
Yes, Chad Pergram is married to Carrie Giddins Pergram, who works as a Political Consultant and Professor of Political Communications. They got married in November 2011.
What awards has Chad Pergram won for his journalism?
Chad Pergram has won several prestigious awards, including the Joan S. Barone Award for Excellence in National Affairs/Public Policy Broadcast Journalism in 2006 and an Edward R. Murrow Award for Excellence in Reporting in 2007.
Where did Chad Pergram begin his journalism career?
Chad Pergram began his journalism career while still in high school as an intern and later reporter/anchor at WKRC-AM in Cincinnati, Ohio.
What is the Inside Washington Program that Chad Pergram is associated with?
The Inside Washington Program is a study program at Miami University that Chad Pergram helped create. It gives students the opportunity to experience Washington D.C. through internships and meetings with political figures.
What major news events has Chad Pergram covered?
Chad Pergram has covered numerous significant events including the 2010 and 2018 midterm elections, Supreme Court confirmation hearings, the 2016 presidential election, the passage of major legislation like the Affordable Care Act, and the 2018-2019 government shutdown.
What hobbies does Chad Pergram have outside of journalism?
Outside of journalism, Chad Pergram is an avid snow skier, holds a Second Degree Black Belt in Tae Kwon Do, and has worked as a host for the Washington Capitals Radio Network, showing his interest in hockey.
Samantha Yates is a creative writer and journalist with expertise in content creation and editing. She holds an MA in Creative Writing and brings professional experience from Lionbridge, where she developed engaging content for leading technology companies
