Key Takeaways:
– For the first time in 20 years, the Los Angeles Times has decided not to make a presidential endorsement.
– The decision came from the paper’s owner, Dr. Patrick Soon-Shiong.
– The LA Times editorial board has previously endorsed Democratic candidates since 2008.
A Groundbreaking Change in Policy
For the first time in two decades, the Los Angeles Times will not support any presidential candidate. This news is a significant change in the paper’s approach to elections. The directive came straight from the top – Dr. Patrick Soon-Shiong, the paper’s owner.
The Break from Historical Norms
Historically, the Los Angeles Times endorsed Democratic candidates in every presidential race since 2008 when it backed former President Barack Obama. The paper’s editorial board was planning to support Vice President Kamala Harris for the 2024 race, recognizing it as a vital election. But a sudden directive from Dr. Soon-Shiong derailed this plan.
Public Confirmation and Reactions
Elizabeth MacDonald, a reporter, confirmed the news through a tweet on October 22, 2024. She spoke to voters questioning the credibility of a candidate who, in their view, failed to address America’s challenges over the past four years.
The Legacy of LA Times’ Political Endorsements
This isn’t the first time the LA Times has shaken things up. Going back in history, it initially endorsed Republican candidates until the 1970s, when it received criticism over backing Richard Nixon. After that backlash, it refrained from endorsing presidential candidates until 2008 when it publicly supported Barack Obama.
Previous Decision in 2020 Democrat Primary
When Dr. Soon-Shiong bought the paper in 2018, he also withheld an endorsement during the 2020 Democratic primary, following the editorial board’s choice to support Senator Elizabeth Warren. However, in that year’s general election, the paper went on to back the now President Joe Biden.
A Trend of Noncommitment?
This withholding of endorsements doesn’t just apply to newspapers – even unions are treading the same path. For example, in September, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters said it wouldn’t endorse after internal polling showed more than half of its members favored Republican nominee Donald Trump.
Current Presidential Race Status
At present, the presidential race appears to be in a deadlock. Some say it’s too close to call. Former President Trump, vying for a second term, is reportedly edging out Harris in key battleground states. Whether or not he can close the gap and gain a lead, only time can tell.
Inconclusive Response from LA Times
The Los Angeles Times has yet to respond or comment on these recent developments. The decision to withhold a presidential endorsement marks a departure from its usual political path, it will be interesting to see how this move will affect the upcoming election.