Washington Post Columnist Jonathan Capehart Accepts Buyout After Nearly Two Decades
Jonathan Capehart, a long-time columnist for the Washington Post, has decided to leave the publication after accepting a buyout. Capehart, who earned a Pulitzer Prize during his time at the New York Daily News in 1999, has been with the Post for over 18 years. His departure marks a significant shift, as he was previously a member of the editorial board until 2022, when he resigned due to disagreements over the paper’s stance on Georgia’s voting laws.
Capehart is not alone in this exodus. Several other prominent writers, including Ann Telnaes, David Shipley, and Ruth Marcus, have also exited the paper. This trend has raised concerns about the Washington Post’s editorial direction, which some believe is shifting more toward conservative viewpoints following the 2016 election.
Recently, the Post’s owner, Jeff Bezos, announced changes aimed at supporting personal liberties and free markets, indicating a new editorial strategy. This move reportedly led to division within the newsroom, with many staff expressing dissatisfaction and even choosing to take buyouts offered by the management.
In a memo, Washington Post publisher Will Lewis encouraged those unhappy with the paper’s new direction to consider leaving. Capehart’s relationship with the Post has been increasingly contentious, as he expressed his frustrations in a recent memoir, criticizing fellow editorial members for stifling his voice.
Capehart’s departure highlights broader concerns about the future of the Washington Post as it navigates through these changes. Many are watching closely to see how the paper evolves under its new editorial vision.
