Overview

• The Los Angeles Times did not endorse a presidential candidate in 2024 for the first time since 2008, following owner Patrick Soon-Shiong's decision to halt the planned endorsement of Kamala Harris.
• Soon-Shiong stated the decision was driven by a desire to ensure endorsements are based on factual analysis rather than prepackaged opinions or speculation.
• The move led to backlash, including staff resignations and subscription cancellations, as well as criticism from those who viewed it as a departure from the paper's historically left-leaning stance.
• Soon-Shiong emphasized the importance of 'competence' in leadership, criticizing both Harris and local officials like LA Mayor Karen Bass while advocating for a less partisan editorial approach.
• The LA Times plans to continue evolving its editorial board, incorporating diverse perspectives to better serve a broader audience and rebuild trust in media.