For a distinguished example of reporting on national affairs, Three thousand dollars ($3,000).
The Philadelphia Inquirer , by Donald L. Barlett and James B. Steele
For their 15-month investigation of "rifle shot" provisions in the Tax Reform Act of 1986, a series that aroused such widespread public indignation that Congress subsequently rejected proposals giving special tax breaks to many politically connected individuals and businesses.
Finalists
Nominated as finalists in National Reporting in 1989:
Matthew Purdy
For his reporting on abuses in America's kidney dialysis program.
Scot Lehigh
For his insightful coverage of the presidential campaign of Massachusetts Governor Michael Dukakis.
The Jury
The Jury
Norman Pearlstine(Chair)
Managing Editor, The Wall Street Journal
William E. Ahearn
Executive Editor, Associated Press
Anthony H. Campbell
Former Executive Editor, The Denver Post
Barrie Hartman
Vice President & Executive Editor, Boulder Daily Camera
Tonnie Katz
Assistant Managing Editor/News, Orange County Register
Winners in National Reporting
Tim Weiner
For his series of reports on a secret Pentagon budget used by the government to sponsor defense research and an arms buildup.
Staff
For its exclusive reporting and persistent coverage of the U.S. -- Iran-Contra connection.
Craig Flournoy and George Rodrigue
For their investigation into subsidized housing in East Texas, which uncovered patterns of racial discrimination and segregation in public housing across the United States and led to significant reforms.
Thomas J. Knudson
For his series of articles that examined the dangers of farming as an occupation.
1989 Prize Winners
Clarence Page
For his provocative columns on local and national affairs.
Michael Skube
For his writing about books and other literary topics.