In a surprising twist, even liberal stalwarts like The Washington Post and Time magazine are sitting this one out, withholding their usual enthusiastic endorsement for Kamala Harris’ presidential run. Normally, these outlets are lockstep with the Democrats, but this time around, they’re notably quiet, sending shockwaves through the political sphere.
Since stepping into the race in July, Harris has managed to lose the backing of key media giants traditionally aligned with her party. So, what’s the reason for this unusual silence?
The writing on the wall points to a few areas of concern. As Vice President, Harris has had a bumpy ride with the public—her approval ratings have been shaky, and recent polls show that confidence in her leadership is, shall we say, less than stellar. Couple that with a rocky stint in office and an array of cringe-worthy public moments, and it’s no wonder her media friends are hesitant.
These media heavyweights seem to be hedging their bets, unwilling to fully commit to a candidate they fear may not make it across the finish line. As if that wasn’t telling enough, another voice just joined the chorus of non-endorsements.
From The Post Millennial: USA Today, one of the largest papers in the country, has also passed on endorsing Harris this season. They told The Daily Beast that instead of endorsing, they’d focus on giving “readers the facts that matter and the trusted information they need to make informed decisions.”
Standing (Or Sitting?) With USA Today
Joining the ranks of The Washington Post and LA Times, USA Today’s decision to pass on endorsing Harris is pretty striking—especially since they broke a 40-year tradition in 2020 by endorsing Biden, warning of the so-called “existential threat” of a second Trump term. Apparently, in 2024, they’re less interested in taking sides and more comfortable on the sidelines.
In their statement to The Daily Beast, USA Today’s team laid out their approach for the election, saying they’re determined to deliver “the facts that matter” instead of steering readers in any direction.
And it’s not just USA Today taking this route; Gannett, its parent company, has decided that none of its 200 publications will be endorsing a candidate. The question lingers—why are these once-committed news giants stepping back now?
A Questionable Track Record
Harris’ rise to lead the Democratic ticket wasn’t exactly a popular choice, and her VP record has been met with more than a little skepticism. From struggles managing her public image to fumbles in high-stakes appearances, Harris hasn’t exactly inspired faith, even among traditional supporters.
Add her shaky approval ratings and questions around her handling of key issues, like immigration and national security, and it’s clear she isn’t the ironclad choice her party had hoped for.
There’s even a theory floating around that these media giants are trying to dodge the potential fallout from backing a losing candidate. They’ve seen the same polls the rest of us have and might just be protecting their own reputations in case her campaign goes down in flames. Are they subtly signaling that they, too, have their doubts about her chances?
Backing Off: A New Media Trend?
This hands-off approach could be reshaping the media’s role altogether. After refusing to endorse Harris, The Washington Post has seen some high-profile resignations and even a dip in subscribers. The New York Times has backed Harris, but how long they’ll stay on that train is anyone’s guess.
For USA Today, not picking sides seems almost practical. Instead of shouting their preferences from the rooftops, they’re hunkering down on facts. Lark-Marie Anton, a spokesperson for Gannett, explained that they believe “America’s future is decided locally—one race at a time.” National endorsements? Not so much.
2020 vs. 2024: A Stark Difference
It’s impossible to miss the contrast between USA Today’s 2020 endorsement of Biden and its silence now. In 2020, they didn’t just endorse Biden; they painted a dark picture of a nation on the brink, needing a stabilizing force. They didn’t mince words about Trump’s “temperament, knowledge, steadiness, and honesty” and called Biden the answer.
Fast forward to now, and that same editorial board has opted out. Perhaps they’re subtly saying Harris isn’t quite the stabilizer they had in mind. Or maybe they’re letting on that, this time, they’re not as eager to steer voters away from Trump.
Whatever the reason, USA Today’s silence is loud. Harris’ candidacy isn’t inspiring enough for an endorsement, making it clear that her bid lacks the same conviction.
If voters stopped and considered the happenings with the newspapers,they would realize that there is something about Heels up the headboard that isn’t right.