Los Angeles Times Faces Backlash Over Endorsement

The Los Angeles Times is facing backlash after its owner, Patrick Soon-Shiong, blocked the editorial board from endorsing Kamala Harris for president, leading to significant reader outrage and subscription cancellations. This marks the first time in 20 years that the Times has not backed a Democratic candidate, prompting the resignation of Editorials Editor Mariel Garza in protest. The Times Guild has urged readers to maintain their subscriptions, emphasizing that these funds support the salaries of journalists who continue to provide crucial news coverage. Soon-Shiong has denied vetoing the endorsement, asserting that he wanted the board to present a comparative analysis of candidates' policies. However, the editorial staff remains concerned about the owner's influence on editorial decisions. As the controversy unfolds, many readers, including notable figures, are publicly canceling their subscriptions, expressing anger over the perceived censorship.