For distinguished commentary, Five thousand dollars ($5,000).

Awarded to Paul A. Gigot of The Wall Street Journal for his informative and insightful columns on politics and government.

Columbia University President George Rupp (left) presents Paul Gigot with The 2000 Pulitzer Prize for Commentary.

Finalists

Also nominated as finalists in this category were: Michael Kelly of The Washington Post Writers Group for his enlightening and entertaining observations on cultural and political issues, and Colbert I. King of The Washington Post for his caring, persuasive columns addressing social and urban problems.