The Guardian Endorses Kamala Harris in a Historic Move
- The Los Angeles Times and Washington Post chose not to endorse a candidate for president in this election.
- Both newspapers are owned by billionaires who may fear repercussions in a Trump presidency.
- The Guardian's independence allows it to endorse Kamala Harris and maintain accountability to its readers.
On November 4, 2024, the Guardian US editorial team addressed readers regarding the decision of the Los Angeles Times and the Washington Post to refrain from endorsing a presidential candidate in the upcoming election. This unprecedented choice by these major newspapers was noted to be influenced by their billionaire ownership, which could lead to fears of retaliation should Donald Trump win the presidency. This situation highlighted the importance of media ownership in ensuring democratic integrity. The Guardian, in contrast, maintains its independence through its ownership by the Scott Trust, allowing it to support candidates without external influence. Earlier in the week, the Guardian officially endorsed Kamala Harris for president, underscoring its commitment to fearless journalism. As the election approached, the newspaper stressed the need for an informed public and the significance of its role in covering this critical event, regardless of potential backlash. The editorial team emphasized the necessity of continued support from the readership to uphold their mission of accountability and independence in journalism.