• by Ray Schultz , January 30, 2024

The union that represents journalists at The Arizona Republic has negotiated a two-year contract with parent company Gannett, setting a $50,000 minimum salary and other benefits.

The contract was approved unanimously by Guild members last week.

“I was surprised when we started this, and really talking to my fellow co-workers about how many of them were having to work side jobs or do meal delivery or things like that, to try to make ends meet,” says Richard Ruelas, chair of the Arizona Republic Guild. 

Ruelas adds that some new reporters made as little as $30,000. 

“Four years ago in Phoenix, we began negotiating a first contract fully aware of the complexities," says Greg Burton, executive editor of the Republic. "Today, we emerge united around mutual priorities, a mission to serve readers and an obligation to hold the powerful to account."

The union posted on X, “We are proud to announce we have ratified our first contract with 100% voting in favor of ratification. This first contract was four years in the making, and we appreciate all of the support we received from our community.”