Kamala Harris Critiques Major Newspapers in New Book
In her latest book, *107 Days*, former Vice President Kamala Harris calls out the Washington Post and the Los Angeles Times for not backing her presidential campaign for 2024. She recalls the LA Times announcing its support for a particular election, stating that the article’s opening line noted the potential significance of this election. Yet, she felt noteworthy omissions were present.
The LA Times, owned by Patrick Soon-Shiong, decided against supporting certain presidential candidates. This decision seems particularly striking given that the Washington Post, under Jeff Bezos, has also withhold support.
Harris remarked that these influential media figures appeared apprehensive towards her, likely due to their history regarding Trump. It seems they were primarily focused on Trump’s electoral victory, which may have colored their present view of her candidacy.
Washington Post Staff Pushback
The Washington Post’s staff has reportedly voiced their disapproval of supporting presidential candidates, alongside expressing discontent toward Bezos.
Harris’s book describes the historical context of the short presidential campaign that followed Joe Biden’s exit. The LA Times editorial board announced, for the first time since 2008, that they would not endorse any candidate. This resulted in the resignation of editor Mariel Garza, who alleged that the owner was behind the decision not to support Harris.
The LA Times addressed the situation, emphasizing that endorsing a candidate is a serious matter that can influence many voters. They highlighted that Patrick Soon-Shiong chose not to back Harris based on the Biden administration’s record and her own performance.
Days later, the editorial board confirmed they would abstain from future presidential endorsements as well.
William Lewis, Washington Post’s publisher, described the decision as empowering readers to form their own opinions, especially regarding such a pivotal choice as electing the next president.
Historical Context
Interestingly, the paper has typically endorsed Democratic candidates, with a notable exception in 1988 when they declined to support Michael Dukakis. The Washington Post hasn’t yet provided comments on this latest decision.
Other newspapers, such as USA Today and the Minnesota Star Tribune, have also refrained from endorsing candidates for the upcoming 2024 elections.
In her reflections, Harris noted the disapprovals mentioned in a book by former Washington Post editor Marty Baron. She warns that this moment reflects a troubling period for democracy and suggests it may embolden figures like Trump.
Harris also referenced humor columnist Alexandra Petri, now at the Atlantic, who expressed some embarrassment over the need for humorists to support the presidential office. “In the end,” Harris quipped, “I support Kamala Harris for the presidency.”
