Editor-in-chief Matt Murray noted that the newspaper has been facing financial difficulties and has not been meeting the needs of its readers, which has led to the necessity of shifting the focus of its editorial policy. The publication will be more focused on national news, politics, business, and healthcare, while attention to other topics will be reduced.
According to Murray, "today's changes are necessary to occupy a more significant place in the lives of the audience in the context of a competitive media landscape."
He also stated that the international department will be significantly reduced, and the sports department will be closed. However, some sports journalists will be able to continue working by moving to the features department. Additionally, the newspaper will close its book section and the daily podcast Post Reports.
According to National Public Radio, the layoffs, which began on February 4, were the result of an order from The Washington Post's owner, billionaire Jeff Bezos. The layoffs will affect nearly all editorial divisions, and Murray emphasizes that the newspaper has long needed these changes, given the "complex and even frustrating reality."
