Capehart on Leaving WaPo: ‘We Were Told We Would Have To Be Unapologetically Patriotic’ and Write About Positive Things

NAWAZ: “Jonathan, before we go, folks will have noticed that we introduced you slightly differently tonight than we usually do. We should point out, after nearly two decades at The Washington Post, you recently made the decision to leave. I just wanted to give you a chance to speak directly to our audience to tell them why.”
CAPEHART: “Well, the direction of the opinion section changed. Jeff Bezos, the owner of The Washington Post, as is his right, decided that he wanted the section to focus on the twin pillars of personal liberties and free markets. And it became clear, as time went along, and especially when he chose a new leader for the section, that there was just not going to be any room for a voice like mine, especially when we were told that we would have to be unapologetically patriotic and talking about the positive things happening in the country. How can you talk about the positive things happening in the country when the rest of the house is engulfed in flames and the foundation is flooding? I wanted to go someplace where my voice would be heard.”
NAWAZ: “Jonathan Capehart, we’re so glad your voice is heard right here at our table, David Brooks, yours as well.”
BROOKS: “Thank you.”