The Washington Post plans to lay off nearly 100 employees, representing 4% of its workforce. The move aims to address escalating financial losses, according to media reports.
Most of the layoffs will impact the business side of the newspaper, owned by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos. Like many media outlets, the Post struggles to compete in a crowded digital landscape where online platforms dominate advertising revenue.
In 2023, the Washington Post faced $77 million in losses and a significant decline in online readership. The same year, the publication offered voluntary buyouts to cut 10% of its workforce. These challenges mirror broader trends affecting traditional journalism.
Turmoil Over Editorial Decisions
Tensions at the Post escalated after Jeff Bezos blocked an endorsement of Vice President Kamala Harris for the 2024 U.S. presidential election. Breaking with tradition, Mr. Bezos argued that public perception of media bias necessitated the decision. However, 250,000 readers canceled their subscriptions in protest.
High-profile departures followed, including investigative journalist Josh Dawsey, who joined The Wall Street Journal. Managing editor Matea Gold also left for The New York Times, signaling deeper challenges within the newsroom.
Pulitzer Prize-winning cartoonist Ann Telnaes resigned after the Post refused to publish her satirical cartoon. The illustration depicted Mr. Bezos and other tycoons kneeling before a statue of President-elect Donald Trump. Her resignation highlighted growing conflict between Bezos and the paper’s editorial staff.
Bezos’s Controversial Moves
In addition to tensions at the Post, Bezos sparked criticism for his relationship with President-elect Trump. He announced Amazon would donate $1 million to Trump’s inauguration fund, along with an in-kind contribution of the same amount. Bezos described Trump’s re-election as “an extraordinary political comeback” and even dined with him at Mar-a-Lago.
These developments deepen the challenges facing the Washington Post as it navigates financial losses, editorial disputes, and public backlash. The future of the newspaper remains uncertain amidst these mounting pressures.