Los Angeles Times newsroom in turmoil as top editors resign over non-endorsement policy for 2024 election, while New York Post surprises with Trump endorsement.
At a Glance
- Three top editors resign from Los Angeles Times over non-endorsement decision.
- Owner Patrick Soon-Shiong blocked endorsement of Kamala Harris for president.
- Decision marks departure from newspaper’s tradition of endorsing candidates since 2008.
- Resignations highlight struggle between political discourse and impartiality in media.
- New York Post endorses Donald Trump in surprising turn of events.
Editorial Board Exodus at Los Angeles Times
The Los Angeles Times finds itself embroiled in controversy as three top editors resign over the newspaper’s decision not to endorse a candidate for the 2024 presidential race. Editorial page editor Mariel Garza, along with editorial board members Robert Greene and Karin Klein, tendered their resignations in protest of owner Dr. Patrick Soon-Shiong’s directive to abstain from endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris.
The decision marks a significant departure from the newspaper’s tradition of endorsing presidential candidates since 2008. It has sent shockwaves through the newsroom, already grappling with layoffs and financial challenges. The union representing Times journalists has demanded transparency regarding the non-endorsement decision, reflecting growing concerns about the newspaper’s editorial direction.
Clash of Principles: Journalism vs. Impartiality
The resignations have brought to light the inherent struggle media organizations face when balancing their role in political discourse against the need for impartiality. Robert Greene, a Pulitzer Prize winner, expressed his disappointment over the lack of endorsement, citing concerns about Donald Trump’s perceived hostility towards journalistic principles.
“I recognize that it is the owner’s decision to make. But it hurt particularly because one of the candidates, Donald Trump, has demonstrated such hostility to principles that are central to journalism — respect for the truth and reverence for democracy.” – Robert Greene
Mariel Garza, the former editorial page editor, took a strong stance against the decision, emphasizing the importance of speaking out during what she described as “dangerous times.” Her resignation underscores the tension between editorial independence and ownership influence in major news organizations.
Owner’s Perspective: Balancing Act
Dr. Patrick Soon-Shiong, the owner of the Los Angeles Times, defended his decision by emphasizing the need to avoid further division and allow readers to make their own decisions based on a balanced presentation of facts. He suggested that the editorial board provide a factual analysis of both Harris and Trump’s policies instead of an outright endorsement.
“I have no regrets whatsoever. In fact, I think it was exactly the right decision. The process was [to decide]: how do we actually best inform our readers? And there could be nobody better than us who try to sift the facts from fiction.” – Dr. Patrick Soon-Shiong
This approach, however, was met with resistance from the editorial board members who believe that taking a stand is fundamental to their role. The decision has sparked a broader debate about the evolving nature of media endorsements in an increasingly polarized political landscape.
Wider Implications and Industry Trends
The Los Angeles Times controversy echoes a similar decision by the Washington Post to abstain from presidential endorsements, signaling a potential shift in how major news outlets approach political endorsements. This trend raises questions about the role of editorial boards in shaping public opinion and the value of newspaper endorsements in modern political discourse.
Meanwhile, in a surprising turn of events, the New York Post has endorsed Donald Trump for the 2024 presidential race. This development adds another layer of complexity to the ongoing debate about media neutrality and political endorsements, highlighting the diverse approaches taken by different news organizations in navigating the current political climate.
As the media landscape continues to evolve, the Los Angeles Times controversy serves as a focal point for discussions about journalistic integrity, editorial independence, and the changing relationship between news organizations and their readership in an era of heightened political polarization.
Sources:
- Two more LA Times editorial board members resign after the paper withholds a Harris endorsement
- L.A. Times owner’s decision not to endorse in presidential race sparks resignations, questions
- More Editors Quit the LA Times Over Its Presidential Endorsement.
- The Post endorses Donald Trump for president — the clear choice for a better future
