LA Times Drops Editorial Coverage Of Trump, Draws Mixed Reactions

The Los Angeles Times will cease writing editorials about President-elect Donald Trump, owner Patrick Soon-Shiong announced Friday. The decision reflects a shift toward less partisan coverage, according to Soon-Shiong.

The move follows backlash from readers earlier this year when Soon-Shiong prevented the paper from endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris. That decision led to nearly 20,000 canceled subscriptions and resignations from members of the editorial board.

Soon-Shiong has defended the decision as necessary for the paper’s survival, stating, “Something has to change if all this is being considered a philanthropic trust. It’s not.” He also emphasized the need for a balanced editorial approach to attract a wider audience.

This strategy is similar to that of Washington Post owner Jeff Bezos, whose paper chose not to endorse any candidate in the 2024 election. Soon-Shiong plans to add more conservative voices to the Times’ opinion section as part of this shift.

Criticism of the move has been sharp, particularly from former staff. Columnist Harry Litman resigned earlier this month, accusing the paper of prioritizing profits over principles. Litman said he could not continue working for an outlet that he believes facilitates attacks on democracy.

The Times has faced declining readership and stiff competition from digital platforms, forcing it to reevaluate its editorial policies.

RELATED ARTICLESMORE FROM AUTHOR