Washington Post Lays Off 4 Percent of Staff

The Washington Post has announced layoffs affecting approximately 4% of its workforce, translating to around 100 jobs, primarily in its advertising, marketing, and IT departments. This move follows a series of financial struggles, including a reported loss of $77 million in 2023 and a significant decline in digital subscribers, dropping from 3 million in 2020 to 2.5 million by 2023. The layoffs are part of a broader 'transformation' strategy aimed at ensuring the publication's sustainability and aligning with industry needs. The decision to cut jobs comes amidst notable departures of senior staff, including top reporters and editors, which has strained the newsroom's morale. Owner Jeff Bezos's controversial editorial decisions have further exacerbated tensions within the organization, prompting concerns from staff and the Post Guild about the future of the paper. As the Post attempts to navigate these turbulent waters, it faces challenges in adapting to shifting news consumption patterns and maintaining profitability.