New policy on paper not covering itself rebuked by WaPo writer: "I couldn't possibly dissent more strongly"

The Washington Post's in-house media critic harshly criticized the paper's new policy to avoid covering itself as the newsroom continues to face turmoil.

During Monday's live chat session, Erik Wemple, The Post's news industry expert, received numerous inquiries from readers regarding the ongoing issues at "Democracy Dies in Darkness," including the recent departure of Pulitzer Prize-winning cartoonist Ann Telnaes following the rejection of her illustration depicting billionaire Post owner Jeff Bezos groveling to President-elect Donald Trump.

Why did The Post not cover Telnaes' departure from the paper?

"The Post has a history of providing comprehensive coverage of its internal affairs. However, there has been no coverage from the newsroom media desk regarding this matter, only an AP story that was posted on our website. When I asked executive editor Matt Murray about the newspaper's evolving approach to its own workplace, he responded, 'I established a policy that we should not cover ourselves. There are too many inherent conflicts of interest for organizations in that. While it may be merited occasionally, it is conflict-ridden. Most news organizations have similar policies. I set this policy weeks ago, so there is nothing specific tied to the cartoon.'"

The media critic personally rejected the policy.

"Wemple strongly disagrees with the policy, stating that The Post's history of covering its own mistakes and scandals has set it apart from other news organizations that do not hold themselves to the same standards as they hold politicians, CEOs, and professional athletes. He believes that subscribers appreciate this practice."

In October, after the controversy over The Post's presidential endorsement policy, there were concerns from media chatterers about how they would know about events that happen in the hallways or Zoomways. While Murray raised a conflict of interest issue, it was clear that there was a big one that didn't need to be declared. Despite this, Post journalists have been able to overcome such conflicts and report on their own colleagues for decades, dealing with the awkwardness that comes with it. It's evident from this chat that readers have appreciated their efforts.

The Washington Post spokesperson declined to comment further on Murray's remarks, stating that his comments were self-explanatory.

Wemple, a separate media opinion writer from The Post newsroom, has not hesitated to criticize his own employer.

In 2022, Wemple reported on the drama that unfolded at The Post following an erroneous piece written by Taylor Lorenz, who left the paper in 2024.

Last year, Will Lewis, the incoming Post publisher, appointed Murray as acting executive editor. Now, a report suggests that Murray will take on the role permanently after an extensive and fruitless search for another candidate.

The Washington Post has been at the center of media controversy due to various reasons, including newsroom tensions, financial losses, outrage over Bezos' decision, and an unprecedented exodus of top talent.