Helen Amelia Thomas (August 4, 1920 – July 20, 2013) was a groundbreaking American journalist known for her fearless reporting and historic role as the first female White House press corps president. With a career spanning over five decades, Thomas broke gender barriers in political journalism and became a trusted voice covering U.S. presidencies from John F. Kennedy through Barack Obama.
Starting her career in Detroit, Thomas moved to Washington, D.C., where she joined United Press International (UPI). Known for her direct questions and tenacity, she earned respect for holding presidents accountable, making her a staple in American political media. As the first woman to serve as president of the White House Correspondents’ Association, she championed equal representation for women journalists.
Helen Thomas’s legacy extends beyond her reporting—she inspired generations of women in journalism and left an indelible mark on the White House press corps. Her commitment to transparency and truth in government coverage remains a benchmark for journalists worldwide.