Back in 2022, Jessica Reed Kraus found herself thrust into the spotlight when she received a phone call from Johnny Depp, who had become intrigued by her coverage of his defamation trial against Amber Heard. Kraus, a former liberal-leaning "mommy blogger," had shifted her focus to celebrity trials and had amassed a significant following on her Substack platform, House Inhabit. This phone call and her subsequent newsletter account of the conversation elevated her status as a writer and gossip columnist. Since then, Kraus has continued to gain influence and followers, particularly from the right-wing community.
Kraus now covers the 2024 election on Substack, delivering her unique perspective on the campaign trail. She has openly expressed admiration for Robert F. Kennedy Jr., JD Vance, and former President Donald Trump, aligning herself more with right-wing views and criticisms of the media's liberal bias. Kraus has faced backlash for her conspiracy theories, attacks on journalists, and controversial connections within the MAGA circle. However, she views herself as a contrarian and claims to provide a more authentic and relatable form of journalism, often blurring the lines between personal opinions and reporting.
Kraus's success on Substack is reflective of the platform's popularity among writers seeking greater independence and financial rewards. While left-wing voices struggle to compete in this space, those with right-wing perspectives often find more support and financial backing. Kraus's growing audience of predominantly right-leaning women and anti-vaxxers has catapulted her into the realm of celebrity, with people recognizing her on the street and treating her as a figure of influence.
Despite her newfound fame, Kraus admits to feeling the pressure of being a primary source of political news for busy moms who rely on her style of coverage. She acknowledges the lack of fact-checking and formal training inherent in her work but believes in breaking down barriers and fostering discussions, even with those who hold differing views. Her success has allowed her husband to become a stay-at-home dad while she navigates the campaign trail, attending high-profile events and documenting her experiences through social media.
The rise of Jessica Reed Kraus represents the evolving landscape of media and the power of independent voices on platforms like Substack. While her tactics and controversies may be polarizing, she has found her niche and continues to captivate her audience with her unfiltered approach to journalism.
