Topic: Dean Baquet

A leaked transcript of an internal New York Times town hall revealed Executive Editor Dean Baquet discussing the newsroom's shift in focus following the conclusion of the Mueller investigation. After the "Russia narrative" failed to result in Trump's removal, the paper pivoted toward covering Trump's alleged racism as its primary editorial mission. The leak, published by Slate, exposed internal tensions between the staff and leadership regarding the paper's objectivity and political stance.

The New York Times has ceased attending the White House Correspondents Dinner, citing concerns over the "chummy" and "cozy" relationship between journalists and the politicians they cover. Mark Leibovitch discusses how Washington journalists have become a "celebrity class," which conflicts with the public's perception of the media. The hosts speculate that the decision may also be driven by the high costs of attending the numerous parties associated with the weekend.