Los Angeles Times owner Dr. Patrick Soon-Shiong is set to launch a MAGA-leaning digital news outlet, LAT Next, featuring conservative personalities and potentially reshaping the media landscape.
Key Insights
- Dr. Patrick Soon-Shiong plans to launch LAT Next, a MAGA-friendly digital news service.
- Conservative commentators Candace Owens and Scott Jennings are expected to be featured.
- The venture is causing concern among Los Angeles Times staff over potential resource diversion.
- LAT Next may include a conservative alternative to “The View” talk show.
- The initiative comes amid financial struggles and voluntary buyouts at the Los Angeles Times.
A New Conservative Voice in Media
In a move that’s sending shockwaves through the media industry, Dr. Patrick Soon-Shiong, owner of the Los Angeles Times, is reportedly preparing to launch a new digital news service called LAT Next. This MAGA-leaning outlet is set to feature prominent conservative voices, including controversial commentator Candace Owens and pro-Trump CNN pundit Scott Jennings.
The initiative, which is being developed in collaboration with Republican strategist Eric Beach, marks a significant departure from the traditionally liberal-leaning Los Angeles Times. LAT Next is designed as a digital-first platform, targeting a conservative audience and potentially including a talk show modeled after “The View,” with video content as a major focus.
Shifting Tides at the Los Angeles Times
Soon-Shiong’s new venture comes amid growing tensions within the Los Angeles Times newsroom. The billionaire owner has recently been pushing for a more conservative perspective in the newspaper, causing unease among staff members. He previously sparked a newsroom revolt by halting the Times’ endorsement of Kamala Harris before the 2020 election, signaling a shift in the paper’s editorial direction.
“The billionaire owner of the Los Angeles Times is reportedly in the process of launching a new MAGA-leaning digital news service that will feature controversial commentator Candace Owens and pro-Trump CNN pundit Scott Jennings.” – Source
Adding to the contentious atmosphere, Soon-Shiong has directed three left-leaning columnists to reduce their contributions, fueling speculation of a strategic shift in the opinion section. He has also expressed regret over past support for progressive causes and criticized the Times for perceived bias, further straining relations with staff.
Financial Challenges and New Directions
The launch of LAT Next comes at a time when the Los Angeles Times is facing significant financial difficulties. Management has announced voluntary buyouts amid ongoing losses, with the potential for substantial job reductions. This has led to concerns among Times staff about the diversion of resources from the newspaper to the new digital venture.
“Unlike the Times, LAT Next appears to be a digital-first platform that will feature personalities catering to a conservative audience, Status’ Oliver Darcy reported on Wednesday.” – Source
In an effort to address concerns about bias, the Times plans to introduce an AI-powered “bias meter” to its stories, though this feature has not yet been implemented. The move reflects Soon-Shiong’s desire to shift the paper’s perceived political leanings and attract a more diverse readership.
Controversial Figures and New Opportunities
The inclusion of Candace Owens in the LAT Next lineup has drawn particular attention. Owens, known for her provocative conservative commentary, recently left the Daily Wire following controversial comments about Jewish people. The Anti-Defamation League has criticized Owens, stating she “has come to embrace and promote antisemitic tropes and anti-Israel rhetoric.”
Despite the controversy, Soon-Shiong appears committed to bringing new voices to the media landscape. Actors Rob Schneider and Cheryl Hines have reportedly met with Soon-Shiong, with Schneider expressing interest in participating in a conservative alternative to The View.
As the media industry watches closely, the launch of LAT Next could signal a significant shift in the balance of conservative and liberal voices in digital news media. While the project is reportedly separate from the Los Angeles Times, its development under Soon-Shiong’s leadership suggests a broader strategy to diversify the media landscape and cater to a wider range of political perspectives.
Sources:
- LA Times owner mulls MAGA-friendly digital news outlet featuring Candace Owens, Scott Jennings: report
- Billionaire LA Times Owner Explores Teaming Up With Candace Owens
