
In a shift from 2020, USA Today announced it would not endorse Kamala Harris in the 2024 presidential election, after endorsing Joe Biden four years ago. The paper explained to The Daily Beast that its mission this year is to provide readers with “trusted information” rather than offering a formal endorsement.
This move follows similar decisions from The Washington Post and The Los Angeles Times, which also declined to endorse Harris despite their long-standing liberal reputations. The New York Times, however, endorsed Harris, though the non-endorsement decisions from the Post and LA Times have reportedly led to resignations and a drop in subscriptions.
BREAKING: USA Today joins The Washington Post and The Los Angeles Times and will NOT endorse a candidate for president. Running for cover? They sense the end is near for propaganda news pic.twitter.com/SrzQ9t18Px
— The Conservative M. D. 🗨️🇺🇸 (@WarriorsForAll) October 29, 2024
USA Today spokesperson Lark-Marie Anton said the newspaper’s choice reflects a belief that “America’s future is decided locally.” Gannett, USA Today’s parent company, has also announced it will refrain from endorsing a presidential candidate across its 200 publications, though they can still endorse candidates in local races.
In 2020, USA Today endorsed Biden, breaking its tradition of neutrality. The editorial board described Biden as a stabilizing figure who could address what they viewed as a volatile Trump presidency. This year, however, USA Today is stepping back, signaling a shift from its stance four years ago.
NEWSPAPERS THAT ENDORSED BIDEN BUT NOT HARRIS
Los Angeles Times, Washington Post, USA Today
The Minnesota Star Tribune, Tampa Bay Times
All the Gannett, McClatchy, and Alden local papers
The list grow is growing! pic.twitter.com/VjlMSgHtGq— Brother Eric (@01IOTA) October 28, 2024
This pivot reflects a larger trend among media outlets aiming to maintain a balance between reporting and editorializing. USA Today’s approach highlights its commitment to neutrality in an increasingly polarized media environment, with readers left to make decisions based on facts rather than endorsements.