The Washington Post's New Editor Withdraws From the Role Due to Controversial CEO Scandal

By Thea Felicity

Jun 21, 2024 11:55 AM EDT

Washington Post Shakes Up Leadership — WASHINGTON, DC - JUNE 5: The Washington Post Building at One Franklin Square Building on June 5, 2024 in Washington, DC.
(Photo : Andrew Harnik/Getty Images)

The Washington Post's newly-named editor, Robert Winnett, has made a significant decision. He has chosen not to take the position and will remain in England, per AP News. This is a notable development, especially in the light of the ongoing backlash against CEO Will Lewis.

In a report from VCPost earlier this month, Lewis was encouraged to resign as CEO of The Washington Post following accusations of unethical journalism practices from his time as an editor at the Sunday Times in the early 2000s.

Allegations include involvement in phone hacking and paying sources for confidential information, which breaches journalistic ethics. Concerns about Lewis's weakening influence and potential conflicts of interest within the Post have also emerged, particularly after a clash with former executive editor Sally Buzbee over coverage of the Prince Harry phone hacking scandal.

Winnett's Withdrawal from The Washington Post

Lewis had appointed Winnett, a former colleague, to take over the Post's core newsroom functions following the November election as part of a reorganization effort that has since backfired. The Post's former executive editor, Sally Buzbee, resigned rather than accept a demotion.

The Post's CEO announced Winnett's withdrawal in a note to staff on Friday morning, June 21. The note stated that Winnett would stay on as deputy editor of the Telegraph in London.

Several published reports raised questions about Winnett's involvement in articles where sources were paid and information was gathered through deceptive practices more common in England but frowned upon by journalists in the United States.

No explanation was mentioned on why Winnett is stepping down, adding to the intrigue and uncertainty. However, Lewis informed staff that the search for a new editor would begin immediately, further fueling the speculation.

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