Celebrity culture is one thing. For TMZ, Congress is the new 'reality show'

Key Points:

• TMZ has launched a new Washington D.C. bureau focused on covering Congress with a mix of levity, gossip, and exclusive political scoops to attract readers who may not be politically engaged.
• The bureau, led by producers Charlie Cotton and Jacob Wasserman, aims to humanize politicians by asking relatable and humorous questions while also holding them accountable on serious issues.
• TMZ's political coverage gained traction earlier this year with viral photos of lawmakers vacationing during a government shutdown, prompting founder Harvey Levin to establish the D.C. operation in April.
• The new approach has elicited varied reactions from politicians, with some like Rep. Lauren Boebert engaging openly, while others like Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer have declined to participate in TMZ's informal style.
• Media experts acknowledge TMZ D.C.'s growing influence and emphasize that despite its unconventional style, the bureau seeks to break significant political news and compete with traditional news outlets.