The union representing employees of the Los Angeles Times has urged readers not to cancel their subscriptions despite recent controversies surrounding the paper’s decision not to offer a presidential endorsement this year. The non-endorsement was initially reported to have come from the paper’s owner, Dr. Patrick Soon-Shiong, leading to the resignation of editorials editor Mariel Garza. However, Soon-Shiong later stated that it was the Times editorial board that made the decision, which he accepted.
Following the backlash and confusion from readers, the L.A. Times Guild Unit Council emphasized the importance of readers’ subscriptions in supporting the journalists who work tirelessly to keep them informed. The guild expressed concerns over the owner’s decision to block the endorsement and shift blame onto editorial board members, calling for transparency and answers.
Despite the internal turmoil, the guild reassured readers that journalists at the L.A. Times remain committed to their work of covering important issues, interviewing sources, and investigating local corruption. The plea to readers not to cancel their subscriptions was a plea for the sake of the journalists’ livelihoods and the essential work they do in upholding a well-informed democracy.
Garza’s resignation letter highlighted the ethical implications of the paper’s silence on endorsing a presidential candidate, raising questions about integrity and decision-making within the editorial board. The history of the L.A. Times’ presidential endorsements, which have predominantly favored Democratic candidates, was also noted, along with instances where the owner overruled the editorial board’s decisions.
The ongoing debate surrounding the L.A. Times’ editorial practices and ownership decisions underscores the challenges faced by news organizations in maintaining editorial independence and credibility. As readers navigate their relationship with the media, the importance of supporting journalism and journalists in their pursuit of truth and accountability becomes increasingly evident.
