The founder of the largest book distribution system in the U.S. has reduced staffing at the Washington Post by 30%. One would think that Jeff Bezos, who began his lucrative career by encouraging Americans to purchase and read books of all genres, would respect the importance of journalism in this highly politicized country and across the globe.
Unfortunately, one suspects that this mass firing is more of a political than a financial move. Having purchased the paper that brought down Nixon, Bezos, among the most wealthy individuals in America, seems to be reluctant to demonstrate independence during the reign of another corrupt and power-hungry President.
What can be more important than an aggressive free press when our Democracy is threatened and human rights are under attack? As a vital election approaches, this drastic decision is especially suspect and unfortunate.
