Makeover in the comments section
Bezos, who owns The Washington Post, introduced new editorial guidance in a memorandum, noting that the paper will now prioritize both principles. This change led to the resignation of public opinion editor David Shipley. Other staff members reportedly were also dissatisfied with the change.
“A large amount of encroachment,” said the senior journalist.
Chief Economics journalist Jeff Stein publicly criticized the move, calling it a “massive encroachment” by Bezos. Stein expressed concern on X (formerly Twitter), warning that he would resign if the billionaire tried to influence newspaper news.
“I still haven’t encroached on my journalism in terms of the news I’ve reported, but if Bezos tries to interfere with the news, I’ll quit immediately and let you know,” he said.
Tiktok protests and personnel rebound
Frustration is not limited to one or two journalists. The Washington Post video producer Dave Jorgenson joined the protest in his own style through Tiktok’s video in the newsroom. The timing of the decision was also important, urging Bezos to visit the office and help restore trust after more than 400 Washington Post reporters signed a petition.
