The Live team is undergoing an exciting transformation with the addition of two seasoned editors to its leadership ranks. These appointments bring fresh perspectives and a wealth of experience to the forefront of live news coverage.
In the fast-paced world of news, having the right people in key positions can make all the difference. The Live team is fortunate to welcome two such individuals who have proven their mettle time and again.
Amanda E. Newman: A seasoned editor joins the Live team
Amanda E. Newman is no stranger to the high-stakes environment of breaking news. With a career spanning various desks, she has consistently demonstrated exceptional judgment and a keen eye for timely stories.
Newman’s journey began at The Citizen of Laconia in New Hampshire, where she cut her teeth in the world of journalism. She later spent nearly five years at The Valley News in West Lebanon, N.H, honing her skills before joining The Times’s Editing Center in Gainesville, Fla, in 2019. Her move back to the Northeast in 2026 marked the beginning of her tenure on the News Print Hub.
Since joining the Flex desk in, Newman has been instrumental in covering a wide array of high-impact stories. From investigating the beneficiaries of post-election donors to delving into the Jeffrey Epstein case and the war with Iran, her versatility and adaptability have been evident. Her work on the Artemis II mission and redistricting efforts across the country further showcases her ability to tackle diverse subjects with equal proficiency.
Pete Blair, the editor of the Flex desk, had high praise for Newman’s contributions. “She is one of those editors who seems to gravitate toward the biggest stories of the day,” Blair noted. “Whether from International, National, Washington, Politics, or Express — all of which Amanda has spent extended time on during her three years as a Flex editor — she’s unflappable under pressure.”
Newman’s promotion to senior editor on the Live team in New York is a testament to her unwavering commitment and exceptional skills. Her ability to navigate the complexities of live coverage makes her an invaluable addition to the team.
Randy Pennell: A calm hand guiding live coverage
When the news breaks, the Live team knows they can count on Randy Pennell. His calm demeanor and quick thinking have made him an indispensable part of the team, especially during high-pressure situations.
Pennell’s journey with the Live team has been marked by his involvement in some of the most significant stories of recent years. From the wars in Ukraine and the Mideast to the disappearance of the Titan submersible and the Donald Trump’s Manhattan criminal trial, he has consistently delivered top-notch coverage.
During the 2026 election cycle, Pennell was detached to the Politics team to help lead live coverage. His role has been crucial in providing real-time updates and analysis, making him a familiar face to viewers during the second Trump administration.
Before joining the Live team, Pennell was an editor on the finance team in Business, where he edited coverage of banking, personal finance, and more. His background as a Sports copy editor at The Times, which he joined in 2016 from The Associated Press, has given him a well-rounded perspective on news coverage.
Pennell’s promotion to deputy editor on the Live team is a well-deserved recognition of his leadership and expertise. His ability to edit, write, and rewrite on deadline without losing his sense of humor is a rare and valuable trait in the world of live news.
The Live team is thrilled to have both Amanda E. Newman and Randy Pennell in their new roles. Their combined experience and dedication will undoubtedly elevate the team’s ability to deliver timelyaccurate and engaging live coverage.
