Dana Bash, born June 15, 1971, is a prominent American journalist and CNN’s chief political correspondent. At 53 years old, she has built a remarkable career in political journalism, with a net worth of $9 million and an annual salary of $3 million. Previously married to Jeremy Bash and John King, she is currently in a long-term relationship with actor Spencer Garrett. This article dives into her age, net worth, career, salary, married life, and dating history, offering fresh insights, personal reflections, and updated information for 2025.
Early Life and Education: Shaping Dana Bash’s Career Path
Born Dana Ruth Schwartz in Manhattan, New York, to a Jewish family, Bash’s upbringing was steeped in media and academia. Her father, Stuart Schwartz, was a senior producer at ABC News, while her mother, Frances Weinman Schwartz, was an author and Jewish studies educator. This environment sparked Bash’s early interest in journalism. Growing up, she moved between New Jersey and Washington, D.C., attending Pascack Hills High School in Montvale, New Jersey. She later graduated cum laude from George Washington University with a bachelor’s degree in political communications, interning at CBS, NBC, and CNN, which laid the foundation for her illustrious career.
“I was surrounded by news from a young age. My father’s work at ABC gave me a front-row seat to storytelling’s power,” Bash shared in a 2023 interview with The Cut.
Her internships provided hands-on experience, from fetching tapes to shadowing reporters, giving her a unique perspective on the grind of journalism. This early exposure shaped her tenacity, a trait evident in her later high-profile interviews.
Career Highlights: Dana Bash’s Rise to CNN Stardom
Dana Bash’s career began at CNN in 1993 as a library assistant, a role she described as “hectic but never boring.” She quickly rose through the ranks, producing weekend shows like Late Edition and Inside Politics. By 2006, she became CNN’s chief congressional correspondent, covering Capitol Hill with unparalleled depth. Her work earned her the Everett McKinley Dirksen Award three times, a rare feat, and the Sol Taishoff Award in 2019 for broadcast journalism excellence.
In 2024, Bash co-moderated the historic Biden-Trump presidential debate, a pivotal moment that influenced Biden’s decision to exit the 2024 race. She also secured the first joint interview with Kamala Harris and Tim Walz, showcasing her ability to land high-stakes exclusives. Her interviews, like those with J.D. Vance on controversial topics, demonstrate her knack for asking tough questions without alienating subjects.
“Preparation is everything. I spend hours researching to ask questions that cut through the noise,” Bash told The George Washington University Alumni Association.
Her role as anchor of Inside Politics and co-anchor of State of the Union has cemented her as a trusted voice in political journalism. Bash’s unique angle is her ability to humanize complex political narratives, making them accessible to everyday viewers.
Net Worth and Salary: Dana Bash’s Financial Success
As of 2025, Dana Bash’s net worth is estimated at $9 million, driven by her $3 million annual salary at CNN. Her wealth reflects decades of dedication, strategic investments, and high-profile roles. In 2007, she purchased a $2.1 million Washington, D.C., home, now likely appreciated significantly, adding to her financial portfolio. Her curated art collection, featuring works by Richard Zarzi and Dr. Seuss prints, reflects her personal passion and savvy investments.
Compared to peers like Anderson Cooper (net worth $50 million) or Rachel Maddow ($35 million), Bash’s wealth is modest but impressive for a political correspondent. Her salary aligns with her responsibilities, including moderating debates and covering major elections, which boost CNN’s ratings.
Personal Life: Marriages, Dating, and Motherhood
Dana Bash’s personal life has been as dynamic as her career. She was married to Jeremy Bash, a former CIA and Department of Defense chief of staff, from 1998 to 2007. The marriage ended due to mutual incompatibilities, but Bash retained his surname, a nod to her professional identity. In 2008, she married John King, a fellow CNN correspondent, after he converted to Judaism. They welcomed their son, Jonah Frank King, in 2011, but divorced in 2012.
Since 2013, Bash has been in a long-term relationship with actor Spencer Garrett. Their romance, sparked through a mutual friend, remains strong, though they have no public plans for marriage. Social media posts, like Bash’s heartfelt birthday tributes to Garrett on Instagram (@danabashcnn), highlight their chemistry.
As a single mother, Bash balances her demanding career with raising Jonah. “Being a mom grounds me. It’s a constant reminder of what matters,” she shared in a 2021 People interview. Her advocacy for women in journalism, including mentoring young reporters, adds depth to her personal legacy.
Recent Updates: Dana Bash in 2025
In 2025, Bash continues to dominate political journalism. She moderated key debates during the 2024 election cycle and is rumored to be in talks for a new CNN special series focusing on women in politics, inspired by her own experiences. Her active presence on Twitter (@DanaBashCNN) and Instagram keeps fans updated on her professional milestones and personal moments, like attending concerts with Jonah.
Her real estate investments have grown, with sources suggesting she’s eyeing a vacation home in Cape Cod, where she married John King. This move reflects her desire for balance amid a high-pressure career.
Dana Bash Biography Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Dana Ruth Schwartz |
| Date of Birth | June 15, 1971 |
| Age (2025) | 53 years old |
| Birthplace | Manhattan, New York, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Jewish |
| Education | Bachelor’s in Political Communications, George Washington University |
| Occupation | Journalist, News Anchor, Chief Political Correspondent |
| Employer | CNN (since 1993) |
| Net Worth (2025) | $9 million |
| Salary | $3 million annually |
| Marriages | Jeremy Bash (1998–2007), John King (2008–2012) |
| Current Partner | Spencer Garrett (since 2013) |
| Children | Jonah Frank King (born 2011) |
| Height | 5 feet 1 inch (1.55 m) |
| Weight | 130 lbs (59 kg) |
| Awards | Everett McKinley Dirksen Award (3x), Sol Taishoff Award (2019) |
| Social Media | Twitter: @DanaBashCNN, Instagram: @danabashcnn |
Unique Insights: The Power of Resilience
Bash’s journey offers a case study in resilience. Despite two divorces and the challenges of single motherhood, she has thrived in a male-dominated industry. Her ability to secure exclusive interviews, like those with Gabrielle Giffords and Rob Portman, stems from her empathetic yet incisive approach. Unlike many peers, Bash avoids sensationalism, focusing on substantive issues—a strategy that has earned her trust across political divides.
Her mentorship of young journalists, particularly women, is a lesser-known aspect of her legacy. In a 2024 panel at George Washington University, she emphasized the importance of “lifting others up,” sharing how she coaches interns to navigate newsroom dynamics. This commitment sets her apart from competitors focused solely on personal branding.
Conclusion: Why Dana Bash Inspires
Dana Bash’s age, net worth, career, salary, and personal life paint a picture of a woman who has mastered the art of balance. At 53, her $9 million net worth and $3 million salary reflect her professional prowess, while her marriages, dating life, and role as a mother reveal her human side. Her story is one of grit, adaptability, and impact, making her a role model for aspiring journalists.
For more on Dana Bash’s career, visit her CNN profile or Wikipedia page. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram for the latest updates.
