Washington Post Loses 250,000 Subscribers Over Non-Endorsement

The Washington Post has reportedly lost over 250,000 subscribers, approximately 10% of its digital audience, after owner Jeff Bezos intervened to block an endorsement of Vice President Kamala Harris. The decision not to endorse has led to significant backlash, including staff resignations, with prominent figures like Robert Kagan and Molly Roberts stepping down in protest. Critics argue that the timing of this announcement, so close to the election, was poorly handled and lacked editorial board consultation. Bezos defended the move as a principled effort to reduce perceived media bias, expressing regret over the timing. The Post's subscription base, which stood at 2.5 million, is now facing a significant setback as it grapples with financial pressures and declining reader trust. This incident is reminiscent of the Los Angeles Times' similar non-endorsement, which also resulted in subscriber losses.