Rita Braver is a retired American television news correspondent who truly made her mark during her long and impactful career with CBS News. She’s especially recognized for her hard-hitting investigative reporting on major political scandals, including the infamous Iran-Contra affair.
Rita began her academic journey at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, where she earned a degree in political science. Her journalism career kicked off at WWL-TV in New Orleans, where she started as a copy girl before relocating to Washington, D.C., with her husband. In 1972, she joined CBS News as a producer, which was the start of her remarkable journey at the network.
From 1983 to 1993, Rita served as CBS News’ chief law correspondent. During this time, she uncovered significant national security and espionage stories, such as the John Walker spy ring and the case of convicted spy Jonathan Pollard. She played a crucial role in CBS News’ coverage of the Iran-Contra affair, one of the defining political controversies of the 1980s.
Later, Rita took on the role of CBS News’ chief White House correspondent during Bill Clinton’s first term as president. In 1998, she transitioned to become the chief national correspondent for CBS News Sunday Morning, where she delved into a wide range of national stories, cultural topics, and human-interest features.
After an impressive career that spanned over five decades, Rita Braver officially retired from CBS News on March 30, 2025, bringing to a close a truly remarkable chapter in broadcast journalism.
Rita Braver Age
So, how old is Rita? As of 2026, she’s 78 years young! Born on April 12, 1948, in Silver Springs, Maryland, Rita celebrates her birthday every year on that special date.
Rita Braver Education
After completing high school, Rita headed to the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in political science.
Rita Braver Nationality
Rita proudly holds American nationality and citizenship. Growing up in Silver Springs, Maryland, she identifies with her white heritage.
Rita Braver Height | Measurements
Rita stands at about 5 feet 5 inches tall (around 1.65 m), which is pretty average for a woman. However, she hasn’t shared any specifics about her other body measurements publicly.
Rita Braver Family | Parents
Raised in Silver Springs, Maryland, Rita grew up in a loving Jewish household. Unfortunately, she lost her father at a young age. She has two sisters, Bettie and Sharon Braver. While she keeps details about her parents private, our team is looking into this and will provide updates when we can.
Rita Braver Husband and Death
Rita was married to her beloved late husband, Robert Barnett, a dedicated lawyer in Washington D.C. They exchanged vows on April 10, 1972, and welcomed their daughter, Meredith Jane Barnett, in 1978. Meredith later married Daniel Ross Penn in a lovely Jewish ceremony in Washington D.C. on April 6, 2008. Sadly, Robert Barnett passed away in 2025.
Rita Braver Retirement | CBS
Rita Braver is a retired American television news correspondent who truly made her mark during her long and impactful career with CBS News. She’s especially recognized for her hard-hitting investigative reporting on major political scandals, including the infamous Iran-Contra affair.
Rita began her academic journey at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, where she earned a degree in political science. Her journalism career kicked off at WWL-TV in New Orleans, where she started as a copy girl before relocating to Washington, D.C., with her husband. In 1972, she joined CBS News as a producer, which was the start of her remarkable journey at the network.
From 1983 to 1993, Rita served as CBS News’ chief law correspondent. During this time, she uncovered significant national security and espionage stories, such as the John Walker spy ring and the case of convicted spy Jonathan Pollard. She played a crucial role in CBS News’ coverage of the Iran-Contra affair, one of the defining political controversies of the 1980s.
Later, Rita took on the role of CBS News’ chief White House correspondent during Bill Clinton’s first term as president. In 1998, she transitioned to become the chief national correspondent for CBS News Sunday Morning, where she delved into a wide range of national stories, cultural topics, and human-interest features.
After an impressive career that spanned over five decades, Rita Braver officially retired from CBS News on March 30, 2025, bringing to a close a truly remarkable chapter in broadcast journalism.
Rita Braver Salary
Rita Braver is recognized for her dedication, hard work, and determination throughout her career. Because of this, she has earned a substantial salary, estimated to be around $250,000.
Net Worth
With years of experience in the media industry, Rita has successfully built up a solid income over time. As a result, her estimated net worth stands at about $8 million.