Adam O’Neal has taken the helm as the new opinion editor of The Washington Post, promising ‘ambitious and thorough’ changes to the storied section. His appointment aligns with Jeff Bezos’ directive to rebuild trust with Americans by advocating for free markets and personal liberties. O’Neal’s leadership follows significant changes to the paper’s editorial direction, including the departure of former editor David Shipley and criticism from liberal commentators who accused Bezos of aligning with President Donald Trump.
O’Neal, previously associated with The Economist, The Dispatch, and The Wall Street Journal, was introduced in an unusual selfie-style video posted by the Post’s communications department. He began his tenure with an email echoing Bezos’ emphasis on free markets and personal liberties, urging staffers to embrace the new direction. While O’Neal emphasized that the changes would not be partisan, he acknowledged the shift would be challenging for many within the organization.
The Washington Post has faced significant internal and external challenges in recent months. Bezos’ decision to end the editorial page’s endorsement of Kamala Harris in 2024 over Trump sparked widespread criticism and led to several staff departures. In response, Bezos cited a Gallup poll showing declining public trust in the media, stating the profession was now the least trusted of all. This has raised concerns about the paper’s editorial independence and its ability to maintain its reputation.
O’Neal’s appointment also comes amid a broader effort to reshape the opinion section. Bezos recently urged staff who do not feel aligned with the paper’s new direction to take a voluntary separation package, signaling the paper’s commitment to its evolving editorial stance. O’Neal emphasized the importance of building a passionate and committed team to drive the section’s transformation, while also maintaining the Post’s historical values of original reporting and innovation.
Liberal commentators have largely criticized the Post’s shift, dubbing it a ‘terrible tragedy’ and accusing Bezos of compromising journalistic integrity. However, O’Neal has stressed the need for bold changes, framing the new direction as an opportunity to redefine the Post’s role in American media. As the paper navigates this transformation, its ability to balance editorial tradition with modern demands will be crucial to its long-term success.