Harry Cole Biography: The Bold Rise of a British Journalist and Editor in Modern Politics

A powerful yet controversial voice shaping Westminster journalism with influence, ambition, and scrutiny

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Table of Contents

Introduction

Harry Cole is a well-known name in British political journalism, recognised for his sharp reporting style and strong presence in the media world. As a British journalist and editor, he has built a career covering the most important political stories from Westminster to international platforms. His journey reflects both the positive power of journalism and the negative pressure that comes with reporting at the highest level.

In recent years, Harry Cole has become one of the most talked-about political editors in the UK press. From breaking major political scoops to moving into global editorial roles, his career shows how modern journalism can influence national debate, public opinion, and political accountability.

Quick Bio

Detail	Information
Full Name	Harry Cole
Date of Birth	27 April 1986
Age	39 years (as of 2026)
Nationality	British
Birthplace	England, United Kingdom
Profession	British journalist and editor
Known For	Political reporting and major scoops
Current Role	Editor-at-Large, U.S. edition of The Sun

Early Life and Education

Harry Cole was born on 27 April 1986 in England. His early life was shaped in a traditional British environment, and he later attended well-known schools that contributed to his academic foundation. His upbringing prepared him for the competitive world of media and politics.

He studied at Sevenoaks School and Tonbridge School before attending the University of Edinburgh. There, he pursued anthropology and economic history, graduating in 2009. During his university years, he became involved in Conservative student politics, showing early interest in political discussion and public affairs.

The Start of a Journalism Career

Harry Cole began his journalism career in 2009 as an intern at the political website Guido Fawkes. This early role placed him directly into the fast-paced world of Westminster reporting. Covering political scandals and national controversies helped him gain attention as a rising figure in British journalism.

His early career reflects both a positive hunger for political truth and the negative challenges of working in an aggressive media environment. Starting in political blogging and insider reporting, he quickly moved into mainstream journalism roles.

Rise as a British Journalist and Editor

After gaining experience, Harry Cole worked as a diarist for The Daily Star Sunday and later for The Sun on Sunday. These roles allowed him to build connections in the media industry and sharpen his voice as a political commentator.

In 2015, he joined The Sun as a Westminster Correspondent, placing him at the heart of UK politics. This role marked a major step in his career, as he reported directly from Parliament and became known for strong political access.

His rise was impressive, but it also placed him under constant public scrutiny. Political journalism brings influence, but it also invites criticism, making his career both celebrated and challenged.

Becoming Political Editor of The Sun

In 2020, Harry Cole returned to The Sun as its Political Editor, one of the most powerful editorial positions in British media. As Political Editor, he was responsible for covering government decisions, elections, scandals, and major national developments.

His reporting style has been described as bold and direct, often breaking stories that create significant political impact. This role confirmed him as a leading British journalist and editor with a strong presence in Westminster.

However, such influence comes with pressure, and political editors often face both praise for accountability and criticism for tabloid intensity.

Major Scoops and Recognition

One of the most significant moments in Harry Cole’s career came in 2021, when he broke the story involving UK Health Secretary Matt Hancock’s breach of COVID-19 regulations. The story gained national attention and led to major political consequences.

This scoop won “Scoop of the Year” at the British Journalism Awards, highlighting his ability to uncover impactful political news. Such achievements show the positive role journalism plays in holding leaders accountable, even when the stories create controversy.

Author and Media Personality

Harry Cole has also contributed beyond daily journalism. He co-authored the book Out of the Blue with James Heale, analysing the short and dramatic premiership of Liz Truss. The book was recognised as The Sunday Times Political Book of the Year in 2022.

In addition, Cole expanded into broadcasting. In 2024, he hosted Never Mind the Ballots, a political programme produced by The Sun. His media presence demonstrates how modern journalists increasingly become public figures themselves.

Move to International Editorial Work

In June 2025, Harry Cole stepped down as Political Editor of The Sun and became Editor-at-Large for its U.S. edition. This move reflected a shift from Westminster-focused reporting to a broader international political platform.

Based in Washington, D.C., his work now includes political commentary, interviews, and editorial contributions aimed at a wider audience. This transition shows the expanding global influence of British journalists in international media spaces.

Career Legacy and Influence

Harry Cole’s career represents the modern era of political journalism, where reporters are not only observers but also major influencers of political conversation. His work highlights the power of investigative reporting and the importance of media accountability.

At the same time, his career reflects the negative challenges of high-profile journalism: constant criticism, public pressure, and the blurred line between politics and media.

Still, Harry Cole remains one of the most recognised British journalist and editor figures of his generation, shaping political reporting through bold scoops and editorial leadership.

Conclusion

Harry Cole has built a remarkable career in British political journalism, rising from early reporting roles to become one of the most influential editors in the UK press. His journey shows both the positive impact of journalism in uncovering truth and the negative scrutiny that comes with media power.

From Westminster to Washington, his career continues to evolve, making him a significant figure in modern political reporting. As a British journalist and editor, Harry Cole’s legacy will remain closely tied to the stories he breaks, the debates he shapes, and the political moments he helps define.