| Type | Web-based |
|---|---|
| Owner | GovNetPA, Inc. |
| Editor | Pete DeCoursey |
| Official website | http://www.capitolwire.com |
Capitolwire is a prominent online subscription-based news service focusing on issues relating to politics and government in Pennsylvania. The Pennsylvania House of Representatives hold a contract with GovNetPA to supply access to Capitolwire for $600 per year for over 40 selected staff members.[1]
Capitolwire was founded in 1999 by Peter Shelly, a veteran political reporter in the Pennsylvania State Capitol.[2] Within it year, it was reported to have 2,000 subscribers.[2] By 2001, the Capitolwire had more than 35 employees and had expanded its coverage area to include New Jersey, New York, Ohio, and Virginia.[2] The Central Penn Business Journal noted that the expansion and new projects had caused cash flow problems, forcing Capitolwire to lay off 10 individuals and to partner with venture capital firms.[2] The company was sold to the Associated Press in 2002.[3] The AP purchased Capitolwire to expand its practice of licensing material to newspapers.[4] In 2005, GovNetPA purchased Capitolwire and named Albert J. Neri as managing director and hired veteran journalist Pete DeCoursey.[5]