The New York Times, often referred to as the paper of record, does not currently represent the perspectives of nearly half of the U.S. voting population in its opinion sections. This absence is particularly noted following the departure of its long-serving conservative columnist, Ross Douthat, who recently joined CBS News as a ’60 Minutes’ correspondent under editor-in-chief Bari Weiss.
Douthat’s departure leaves the Times with 12 columnists, among whom Jamelle Bouie, Maureen Dowd, David French, Thomas Friedman, M. Gessen, Michelle Goldberg, Ezra Klein, Nicholas Kristof, Carlos Lozada, Tressie McMillan Cottom, Lydia Polgreen, and Bret Stephens are featured. While French and Stephens identify as conservatives, their opposition to former President Donald Trump has led them to endorse Kamala Harris in the upcoming 2024 election.
Bari Weiss, once a colleague of Douthat at The Times, resigned from her position as an opinion editor in 2020 citing pressures and bullying from far-left staff. Her resignation followed the controversial publishing of Senator Tom Cotton’s op-ed, advocating for federal troop deployment to quell unrest, an action that prompted significant backlash from within The Times.
The political leanings of existing columnists are apparent in their public commentary and recent controversies. Thomas Friedman has expressed concerns over backing the downfall of the Iranian regime if perceived as a win for Trump and Netanyahu, whom he disparages. Nicholas Kristof drew criticism for an unverified claim about Palestinian prisoners in Israel, while Michelle Goldberg retracted support for Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner amid allegations of sexual assault.
The Times’ editorial board has not endorsed a Republican presidential candidate in nearly 70 years, showing consistent support for Democratic candidates through consecutive elections. Following the 2024 election victory by Trump, The Times published a video featuring predictions from columnists, including French and Stephens, about potential negative impacts of Trump’s administration.
Conversely, The Washington Post, owned by Jeff Bezos, is experiencing transformation in its opinion sections, promoting personal freedoms and free markets, though encountering resistance from its left-leaning readership. Opinion editor Adam O’Neal acknowledged this challenge while aiming to broaden the audience base.
With Ross Douthat’s departure, a reduced conservative presence remains at The New York Times, with those left being vocal critics of Trump.
The New York Times did not provide comments on inquiries regarding this matter.
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