In a surprising turn of events, Sally Buzbee has resigned as Executive Editor of the Washington Post, just months before the presidential election. Buzbee, who held the position for three years, is stepping down amid challenging times for the newspaper.
The Washington Post announced that Matt Murray, the former editor in chief of the Wall Street Journal, will temporarily fill the role until the conclusion of the election. Following this period, the position will be handed over to Robert Winnett, currently the deputy editor at the Telegraph Media Group resigned.
William Lewis, CEO and Publisher of the Washington Post, highlighted the need for change, stating the newspaper is shifting to better accommodate its audience. “We are taking a definitive step away from the ‘one size fits all’ approach and moving towards meeting our audiences where they are,” Lewis said, as reported by the New York Post.
Lewis praised Buzbee’s leadership, stating, “Sally is an incredible leader and a supremely talented media executive who will be sorely missed. I wish her all the best going forward.” Buzbee’s departure was communicated to the staff via email on Sunday evening.
The Washington Post also revealed plans to launch a new newsroom division focused on service and social media journalism. This division will operate separately from the core news operation, aiming to cater to audiences who seek news in non-traditional formats.
The initiative is part of a broader strategy to engage millions of Americans who feel disconnected from conventional news offerings.
Buzbee previously served as executive editor at the Associated Press before joining the Washington Post in 2021. Her tenure has been marked by significant challenges, including a decline in audience and financial struggles for the newspaper.
The Washington Post has faced numerous difficulties since Amazon founder Jeff Bezos purchased it in 2013 from Donald Graham. Despite Graham’s optimism, describing Bezos as a “uniquely good new owner,” the newspaper has struggled under his ownership.
Lewis emphasized the need for adaptation and innovation in his statement, saying, “By creating three, strong, journalism functions — Core, Service/Social and Opinions — we are taking a definitive step away from the ‘one size fits all’ approach and moving towards meeting our audiences where they are.”
Matt Murray expressed his enthusiasm about his new role, stating, “I’m deeply honored to join such a storied news institution with its long, rich history of memorable and impactful journalism and want to thank Sally for her great leadership.” He added, “I am excited by Will and Jeff’s vision for The Post’s next era of growth and reinvention and can’t wait to get started.”
An insider from the Washington Post described the period as “chaotic and turbulent,” reflecting the internal challenges faced by the institution.
