Decline of the Washington Post

Axios - The Washington Post executive editor Matt Murray on Wednesday informed employees that the paper plans to lay off a significant portion of its staff, including many from its nearly 150-year-old newsroom.

The cuts represent the most drastic cost-saving measure the Post has implemented since being taken over by a new management team in early 2024.

....The paper experienced a decade of growth and optimism after it was purchased by billionaire Jeff Bezos for just $250 million in 2013.

The hiring of a controversial new management team in 2024 and opinion section changes driven by Bezos have disrupted the paper's culture, driving a talent exodus as the paper faces serious business challenges.

....The cuts will have a major impact on the Post's award-winning international desk, as well as its sports and metro coverage. The Post's daily podcast "Post Reports" is also getting cut, a source said.

The Washington Post Guild said in a statement that the paper has shrunk its workforce by roughly 400 people in the last three years.

The union called out Bezos, saying if he is "no longer willing to invest in the mission that has defined this paper for generations and serve the millions who depend on Post journalism, then "The Post deserves a steward that will."