Los Angeles Times withholds 2024 endorsement for Kamala Harris

The Los Angeles Times, a newspaper with historical influence in U.S. presidential races, has recently announced that it will refrain from making an endorsement in the upcoming 2024 election. This decision, which ultimately came from owner Dr. Patrick Soon-Shiong, signifies a shift from the paper's usual support of Democratic candidates. The editorial board previously endorsed President Joe Biden in 2020, Hillary Clinton in 2016, and Barack Obama during his campaigns in both 2008 and 2012. Reports indicate that executive editor Terry Tang communicated to the editorial board that the lack of endorsement would apply universally in the current election cycle. The Times did not provide detailed reasons for this decision but emphasized its selective approach to endorsements, prioritizing what it views as the most consequential races. This move represents a notable shift for a paper that has historically played a pivotal role in shaping electoral outcomes. Previously, Dr. Soon-Shiong had overruled the editorial board's decision to endorse Elizabeth Warren in the Democratic primaries of 2020, which resulted in the absence of a primary endorsement that election cycle. This approach has effectively distanced the paper from its profound influence in political discourse, moving away from the active role it once played. As the 2024 election approaches, the decision not to endorse Harris is particularly crucial, as it casts doubt on her visibility and support in her own hometown. This absence of endorsement may have implications for her campaign as other candidates continue to vie for the Democratic nomination.