Will Lewis has resigned as executive editor of The Washington Post, just days after the newspaper announced the dismissal of three hundred journalists – a third of its staff – and the elimination of its sports section, book supplement, and most of its international correspondents.
In a letter to the newspaper’s staff, Lewis stated he was stepping down “to ensure the sustainable future” of the publication. He thanked Jeff Bezos, founder of Amazon and owner of the newspaper, writing, “I want to thank you for your support and leadership during my tenure as CEO and editor. The Post could not have a better owner.”
Lewis will be replaced by the publication’s chief financial officer, Jeff D’Onofrio. He reportedly did not express gratitude to the journalists he led since his hiring in early 2024, a period coinciding with the newspaper’s economic struggles following a profitable era during the first term of Donald Trump.
Lewis stated that “demanding decisions” were made during his tenure “to ensure the sustainable future of the Post” and to “publish impartial, high-quality notes for millions of customers every day.”
The announcement of the layoffs, made last Wednesday, had been anticipated for weeks. A first indication came with the late-hour cancellation of a trip to Milan for sports journalists covering the Winter Olympics. Some correspondents received notice while reporting from the war in Ukraine, while others were informed while preparing for the opening ceremony of the Games in Milan. Many shared their job losses on social media.
The cuts raise questions about the future of the publication, particularly as it faces a reported loss of $100 million. Bezos, who is too enacting personnel reductions at Amazon and has invested $75 million in the filming and advertising of a documentary about Melania Trump, has seemingly curtailed financial support.
In a statement accompanying Lewis’s departure, Bezos asserted that The Post has “an essential journalistic mission and an extraordinary opportunity.” He added, “Every day, our readers chart a course for success.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted Will Lewis’s resignation?
Will Lewis resigned as executive editor of The Washington Post days after the newspaper announced the dismissal of three hundred journalists.
Who will replace Will Lewis?
Jeff D’Onofrio, the publication’s chief financial officer, will replace Will Lewis.
What financial challenges is The Washington Post facing?
The Post is reportedly losing $100 million and has seen a decline in subscriptions, with approximately 250,000 subscriptions canceled following a decision by Jeff Bezos to block the newspaper from endorsing Kamala Harris in the 2024 presidential election.
As news organizations continue to adapt to evolving technologies and audience behaviors, what role will traditional media outlets play in shaping public discourse?
