Political Scientist, Journalist, and Progressive Commentator
Conor Kelly, M.A. | Illinois
Conor Kelly is a political scientist, writer, activist, and the founder of The Progressive American Report, an independent political commentary and interview show focused on American politics and democratic institutions. Through interviews with historians, journalists, and policy experts, his work examines the historical and institutional forces shaping contemporary political debates in the United States and abroad. Drawing on his academic background and experience in political campaigns and public service, Kelly seeks not simply to react to the news, but to contextualize it.
Conor Kelly is a political scientist, writer, activist, and the founder of The Progressive American Report, an independent political commentary and interview show focused on American politics and democratic institutions. Through interviews with historians, journalists, and policy experts, his work examines the historical and institutional forces shaping contemporary political debates in the United States and abroad. Drawing on his academic background and experience in political campaigns and public service, Kelly seeks not simply to react to the news, but to contextualize it.
Disclaimer
The views and opinions expressed on The Progressive American Report are those of the individual author and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any current or former employer, campaign, political organization, institution, or other organization with which the author is affiliated. Nothing published on this site should be interpreted as an official statement or representation of any employer or organization.
The views and opinions expressed on The Progressive American Report are those of the individual author and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any current or former employer, campaign, political organization, institution, or other organization with which the author is affiliated. Nothing published on this site should be interpreted as an official statement or representation of any employer or organization.
Work Experience
Political Canvassing & Campaigns
• Field Director — Sen. Laura Ellman for Illinois Senate (Jun 2026 – Present)• Political Canvasser/Petitioner — Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus / Sen. Laura Ellman (Aug 2025 – Nov 2025)
• Political Canvasser — All United PAC (Mar 2025 – Apr 2025)
• Fellow — Progressive Turnout Project / Casten for Congress (Sep 2024 – Nov 2024)
• Campus Organizer — Warren for President (Dec 2019 – Feb 2020)
Media & Communications
• Video Editor & Researcher — The Collins Law Firm (Apr 2024 – Nov 2024)• Creator & Host — The Progressive American Report (Ongoing)
• Opinion Editor — The Lorian
• Staff Writer — UIS Observer (Sep 2021 – Dec 2022)
Public Service & Administration
• Housing Choice Voucher Receptionist — Housing Authority of Joliet (Nov 2025 – Jun 2026)• Operational Excellence Intern — Illinois Department of Central Management Services (Aug 2021 – Dec 2023)