Growing up in Washington, I always read The Washington Post. As other dailies in D.C. folded, the Post stood strong, taking on the lies of the Vietnam War with its printing of the Pentagon Papers (the NY Times had them first, though), and, most importantly, its Watergate investigation brought down a corrupt President.
Over the past few years its motto became “Democracy Dies in the Darkness.” Now, no more, with Jeff Bezos now stating that its opinion pages would only carry items on those pages that advocate “personal liberties and free markets.” No longer will the Post provide a diversity of opinions.
Freedom taken from him, opinion page editor David Shipley resigned. Although the Post claims that this will not affect news stories, one must wonder how its reporting will be affected. It’s already been made clear that the new regime tolerates no dissent. It is now getting very dark. What will happen to democracy?
Prayer for the Day
Are we to become like ancient Israel and Judah,
Where prophets who told the truth were excoriated?
Are we to become a society narrowed in expression,
Where divergent opinions are no longer tolerated?
Rouse us, O God, so we may stand fearless for truth,
Wake us, O Lord, that we may not shirk from fear of power.
In the name of the One who feared neither Cesar nor priests,
Even Christ Jesus our Lord, Amen.
Thoughts for the Day
What is clear is that Bezos no longer wants to own an independent news organization. He wants a megaphone and a political tool that will benefit his own commercial interests. It’s appalling. And, if you care about the role of the press in America’s democracy, it’s tragic.
Margaret Sullivan, journalist, writing in today’s Guardian
I have always been grateful for how he stood up for the Post and an independent press against Trump’s constant threats to his business interest. Now, I couldn’t be more sad and disgusted.
Martin Baron, Executive Editor, Washington Post 2012-2021
For the day of the Lord is near against all the nations.
As you have done, it shall be done to you;
Your deeds shall return on your own head.
Obadiah 1: 15