Washington Post publisher and CEO Will Lewis resigned abruptly on February 7, just three days after the newspaper announced devastating layoffs cutting about one-third of its staff (more than 300 journalists). His exit capped a tumultuous two-year tenure marked by financial struggles, controversial initiatives, and widespread newsroom anger.
The layoffs eliminated the entire sports section, photography staff, and significant portions of local D.C./metro and international coverage.
Former executive editor Marty Baron described it as one of the "darkest days" in the Post's history, while the Washington Post Guild called Lewis's legacy the "attempted destruction of a great American journalism institution."
Lewis's final days were described in Puck News as "more cowardly and craven than even the newsroom imagined."
Owner Jeff Bezos, who had grown dissatisfied with Lewis over months of escalating losses (previously around $100 million annually) and mishandling of the cuts, reportedly told him to resign. Lewis's brief resignation note (under 100 words) thanked Bezos but offered little acknowledgment to staff or journalists.
The newsroom reaction ranged from open celebration of his departure to deep exhaustion and fear of further instability. CFO Jeff D’Onofrio was named acting CEO and publisher.
Lewis was hired in late 2023 to reverse declines but faced ongoing criticism for failed restructurings (including a "third newsroom" plan), Opinion section changes, and perceived missteps amid broader media challenges. His exit leaves The Washington Post in turmoil, with staff questioning Bezos's next steps to stabilize the storied institution.