Washington Post Publisher Will Lewis Resigns Following Major Layoffs

Will Lewis, the publisher of the Washington Post, has resigned following significant layoffs within the organization. This announcement came just three days after the newspaper dismissed about one-third of its staff, a move aimed at ensuring the publication’s sustainable future.

Will Lewis’s Departure

Lewis, who has been with the Washington Post since November 2023, stated in a note to employees that it is the right time for him to step aside. He expressed gratitude towards Jeff Bezos, the owner of the Post, for his support during his tenure.

Leadership Transition

Following Lewis’s resignation, Jeff D’Onofrio has been appointed as the acting publisher. D’Onofrio previously served as the chief financial officer of the Post since June 2025 and was the CEO of Tumblr before that.

Reasons Behind the Layoffs

The decision to lay off one-third of the newsroom was announced by executive editor Matt Murray during a Zoom call. Reports indicate that Lewis was absent from this meeting, which drew criticism from staff members. The cuts included a reduction in foreign news coverage and the closure of various sections, including sports.

Goals of Restructuring

In a communication to the newsroom, Murray noted that these restructuring efforts are designed to strengthen the Washington Post’s position in a challenging media landscape. The goal is to adapt to rapidly changing technologies and shifting user habits.

Criticism of Leadership

Critiques of the Post’s leadership have been vocal, especially from former executive editor Martin Baron, who cited controversial editorial decisions. These included a recent choice not to endorse a presidential candidate prior to the 2024 election, which raised concerns about the publication’s reputation.

Baron also pointed fingers at Bezos for allegedly focusing more on his other ventures, such as Amazon and Blue Origin, rather than on the Washington Post.

Conclusion

The recent changes at the Washington Post signal a pivotal moment for the organization as it navigates challenges in the media industry. With new leadership in place, stakeholders are watching closely to see how these developments will impact the future of journalism at the Post.