Kamala is losing a lot of support.
In a surprising move, the Los Angeles Times has decided not to endorse either Vice President Kamala Harris or former President Donald Trump in the upcoming presidential election. This decision comes from the paper’s owner, Dr. Patrick Soon-Shiong, who has put the brakes on any presidential endorsements this year.
Traditionally, the Times has leaned Democratic, having backed candidates like Barack Obama since 2008. There were reports suggesting that the paper had initially intended to endorse Harris, making this decision a significant setback for her campaign. Recently, Executive Editor Terry Tang informed the editorial board that the Times would not support any candidate, a directive believed to have originated from Soon-Shiong, a billionaire known for his work in the healthcare sector.
In a recent statement to Semafor, a Times spokesperson explained, “We don’t speak publicly on private conversations or decisions about editorials or endorsements,” underscoring the sensitivity surrounding this decision.
The Times published its endorsements for the 2024 election last week, declaring it “may be the most consequential election in a generation.” Notably absent was any mention of the high-profile contest between Trump and Harris, signaling a shift in how the Times views its role in the current political landscape.
Historically, the Times did not endorse presidential candidates from the mid-1970s until 2008 due to internal conflicts stemming from a controversial endorsement of Richard Nixon. Prior to that, the paper had a long tradition of backing Republican candidates since its inception in 1881.
This latest move raises questions about the influence of ownership on editorial decisions and the evolving role of media in a polarized political environment. As the election approaches, Republican voters may find this an opportune moment to engage with alternative sources of news that reflect their values and beliefs.