Peter Baker is a prominent figure in American journalism, renowned for his in-depth coverage of multiple US presidents for both the New York Times and the Washington Post. Naturally, public interest extends to his personal life, prompting many to ask: Who is Peter Baker’s wife? The answer is Susan Glasser, but to simply define her as “Peter Baker’s wife” would be a significant understatement. Susan Glasser is an accomplished journalist and editor in her own right, boasting a distinguished career that parallels and often intersects with her husband’s, making them a veritable power couple in Washington D.C.’s media landscape. This article delves into the life and career of Susan Glasser, revealing her impressive achievements and contributions to journalism.
Glasser’s career is marked by significant roles at some of the most influential publications in the United States. Currently, she is a staff writer at The New Yorker, where her weekly column offers sharp insights into the political dynamics of Washington. This position is just the latest in a series of high-profile roles that have defined her career. Before joining The New Yorker, Glasser demonstrated her editorial prowess by founding Politico Magazine, a publication that quickly garnered attention and awards for its in-depth political reporting and analysis. Her leadership extended to becoming the editor of Politico itself during the intense 2016 election cycle, a period of unprecedented media scrutiny and political upheaval.
Prior to her success at Politico, Susan Glasser served as editor-in-chief of Foreign Policy magazine. Under her guidance, the magazine achieved significant recognition, winning three National Magazine Awards. This period highlights her expertise in international relations and foreign affairs, adding another layer to her already impressive journalistic profile. Her ability to lead and elevate publications is a consistent theme throughout her career, showcasing not just her writing and analytical skills but also her editorial vision.
Glasser’s career also includes a substantial tenure at The Washington Post, where she spent a decade in various influential roles. She served as the editor of both the Outlook section and the national news desk, demonstrating her versatility and depth of journalistic experience. Notably, she oversaw the Post’s coverage of Bill Clinton’s impeachment, a major political event, showcasing her ability to manage high-stakes, complex news cycles. Earlier in her career at the Post, she was a reporter covering the intersection of money and politics, an area that requires meticulous investigative skills and a deep understanding of political systems.
Adding another dimension to her professional journey, Susan Glasser, alongside Peter Baker, served as the Washington Post’s Moscow co-bureau chief for four years. This experience is particularly significant as it provided her with firsthand exposure to international politics and Russian affairs during a critical period, including the rise of Vladimir Putin. Her time in Moscow not only enriched her understanding of global dynamics but also led to the co-authorship of “Kremlin Rising: Vladimir Putin’s Russia and the End of Revolution” with Peter Baker. This book, recognized as one of the best of 2005 by the Washington Post, further solidified her reputation as a keen observer and analyst of international politics.
The professional partnership between Susan Glasser and Peter Baker extends beyond their time in Moscow. They have co-authored another critically acclaimed book, “The Man Who Ran Washington: The Life and Times of James A. Baker III.” This biography was widely lauded, named a book of the year by multiple prestigious publications including the New York Times and Financial Times. Their collaborative work underscores a unique aspect of their relationship – a shared intellectual and professional life that enhances both of their individual careers.
In conclusion, while Susan Glasser is indeed Peter Baker’s wife, her identity and accomplishments are far more extensive and impactful than that single descriptor suggests. She is a leading voice in American journalism, a distinguished editor, and a perceptive author. From her insightful columns in The New Yorker to her transformative leadership at Politico and Foreign Policy, and her in-depth reporting and editorial roles at The Washington Post, Susan Glasser has carved out an exceptional career. Her work, often intersecting with but distinctly separate from her husband’s, marks her as a significant figure in contemporary media and political analysis. Understanding who Susan Glasser is reveals not just the partner of Peter Baker, but a formidable and influential journalist in her own right.
