The Los Angeles Times is undergoing a significant shift in its editorial approach, welcoming conservative commentator Scott Jennings to its board. This move, spearheaded by owner Dr. Patrick Soon-Shiong, aims to foster a more balanced and representative platform for diverse viewpoints.
Jennings, known for his appearances on CNN and contributions to the L.A. Times as a columnist, expressed enthusiasm for Soon-Shiong's vision. He emphasized his commitment to truth-based commentary, grounded in conservative values, and his belief in robust journalism that embraces a wide range of perspectives.
Jennings views this appointment as a crucial step toward addressing the concerns of many Americans who feel their perspectives are overlooked or misrepresented by mainstream media. He aims to amplify the voices often excluded from traditional media narratives, aligning with Soon-Shiong's goal of creating a more inclusive editorial board.
Soon-Shiong's initiative to diversify the L.A. Times editorial board gained momentum after the 2024 presidential election. He has stressed the importance of distinguishing news reporting from opinion pieces, advocating for fact-based journalism and a platform for diverse opinions. Soon-Shiong's commitment to this balanced approach is evident in his public statements and interactions with Jennings.
Jennings’ background includes a role as an aide to President George W. Bush, followed by contributions to CNN and the L.A. Times. This addition to the editorial board follows the paper's decision not to endorse a presidential candidate in the recent election, a move that drew both criticism and support from readers and staff.
