The Toronto Star already has all kinds of reporters covering specific beats - transportation, education, politics and more. In that, they're no different from many dailies. But now they're looking to hire someone to cover territory I'm not sure would ever have surfaced had The Big Orange One not been elected POTUS. But then again, our own shining examples at Queen's Park and Ottawa appear to be inspirations, as well.

Which may be why they've officially posted a job listing for a brand new position: "Democracy Reporter."

"The assignment will focus on electoral and senate reform, as well as ideas, policies, technology and tools to aid democratic innovation. It will help inform the public about promising policies, campaigns and strategies for an equitable, representative, and vibrant democracy. 

The Democracy Reporter will look for ideas, experiments and solutions from inside Canada and around the world to address issues such as how to reduce the democratic deficit; engage those who are turned off by current politics or feel they have no voice; identify forces behind low voter turnout and disillusionment with the current democratic process; promote civic literacy and civic engagement. 

This beat will focus on levers government can use to transform democracy, and identify and explain ways to make government more transparent and accountable."

Whoever they pick for this spot, I hope they arrive at their decision democratically! Although it's interesting to note that it's listed as a one year position - with the possibility of an extension.  You can see the posting here.