David Shepardson is a Washington, D.C.-based correspondent for Reuters, where he covers transportation, aviation, automotive industries, and technology policy, including issues related to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC)[2]. A Michigan native and graduate of the University of Michigan, Shepardson began his journalism career as a freelance writer at The Detroit News from December 1993 to June 1995 while still a student[3]. He later joined Reuters and has become a prominent figure in reporting on major transportation and regulatory stories, particularly those with significant public policy and safety implications.
Shepardson is recognized for his in-depth coverage of complex, high-profile issues. Notably, he reported extensively on the Flint water crisis, providing critical insights into the public health disaster and the political and regulatory responses that followed[4]. His work often bridges technical, regulatory, and political dimensions, making him a key source for understanding developments in sectors like automotive emissions standards, aviation safety, and telecommunications policy. For example, he has reported on legal challenges to federal vehicle emission standards, highlighting battles between state governments and federal administrations over environmental regulations[5].
In addition to his written reporting, Shepardson has appeared as an expert commentator on national television programs, including PBS NewsHour, Washington Week with The Atlantic, and PBS News Weekend, where he has discussed current events and policy debates[1]. These appearances underscore his role as a trusted voice in explaining complex regulatory and transportation issues to a broad audience.
Currently, Shepardson remains an active and relevant journalist in Washington, D.C., continuing to report on breaking news and policy shifts affecting transportation, technology, and the environment. His recent television appearances in 2024 and 2025 indicate ongoing engagement with major news outlets and a sustained influence in his field[1]. Shepardson’s reporting is characterized by factual rigor and a focus on the intersection of policy, industry, and public interest, reflecting his longstanding commitment to accountability journalism.