The Washington Post is preparing to remove its senior politics editor, signaling significant changes in the wake of President-elect Donald Trump’s decisive victory. This development reflects the broader upheaval affecting liberal media outlets nationwide.
According to a Thursday report by Lachlan Cartwright in the Hollywood Reporter, Dan Eggen, a Washington Post veteran and senior politics editor since 2022, revealed the news to colleagues in an email that left many stunned.
“I struggled with how to write this message since there is an element of begging to it that is not particularly attractive. But what the hey: I was informed Monday that I will be removed as senior politics editor at the end of the year. I will leave it to others to explain why,” Eggen wrote, signaling his dismay over the decision.
Eggen, who has served the publication for over 25 years, described himself as “crushed” by the announcement, according to Cartwright.
Questions Remain About Eggen’s Future
It remains unclear whether Eggen will continue with the Washington Post after his removal from the senior politics editor role. A spokesperson declined to provide details, stating that the outlet does not comment on personnel matters.
Media Facing Credibility Crisis
The decision comes during a critical period for the Washington Post, which has faced criticism for perceived political bias. The outlet recently opted not to endorse Vice President Kamala Harris in the 2024 election—a move that echoed the Los Angeles Times’ decision to withhold endorsements.
This shift in editorial strategies has sparked internal upheaval, with reports of resignations and dwindling subscriptions at both publications. Washington Post owner Jeff Bezos acknowledged the mounting challenges in an October 28 op-ed, writing:
“We must be accurate, and we must be believed to be accurate. It’s a bitter pill to swallow, but we are failing on the second requirement. Most people believe the media is biased.”
Dr. Pat Soon-Shiong, owner of the Los Angeles Times, announced plans to overhaul his publication’s editorial board, pledging to introduce conservative voices.
Dr. Pat wrote: “I will work towards making our paper and media fair and balanced so that all voices are heard and we can respectfully exchange every American’s view.”
Morning Joe Faces Fallout After Trump Meeting
The shifts in tone aren’t confined to print media. MSNBC’s “Morning Joe” co-hosts Joe Scarborough and Mika Brzezinski recently met with President-elect Trump at Mar-a-Lago, signaling a potential pivot in media dynamics.
“In this meeting, President Trump was tearful. He was upbeat. He seemed interested in finding common ground with Democrats on some of the most divisive issues,” Brzezinski shared. “And for those asking why we would go speak to the president-elect during such fraught times, especially between us, I guess I would ask back, why wouldn’t we?”
Despite the effort to bridge divides, “Morning Joe” has faced backlash, with its ratings dropping 15% since the announcement of the meeting. Many liberal viewers have interpreted the move as a betrayal.
The removal of Dan Eggen from his senior politics editor role and the larger shifts across media reflect a turning point for traditionally left-leaning outlets. As trust in media declines, publications are grappling with the challenge of restoring credibility while navigating a polarized political landscape.
