Mariel Garza Resigns from LA Times Editorial Board

Mariel Garza, the editorial section head of the Los Angeles Times, has announced her resignation following the paper's refusal to endorse a presidential candidate in the upcoming election. This decision comes in the context of expectations that the Times would endorse Vice President Kamala Harris. However, the billionaire owner of the newspaper, Patrick Soon-Shiong, intervened to halt any endorsement. In her resignation statement to the Columbia Journalism Review, Garza emphasized the need for honesty and integrity in journalism, stating that 'in dangerous times, honest people need to stand up.' Reports indicate that Garza was responsible for drafting the endorsement that ultimately did not see the light of day. The events highlight a significant moment in the relationship between editorial freedom and corporate ownership in media outlets. The announcement raises critical questions about journalistic independence and accountability, particularly in a political climate that many view as precarious. Garza's resignation may serve as a bellwether for potential turmoil within the editorial staff at major publications and reflects growing tensions in how media organizations navigate editorial autonomy under corporate influence.