The Washington Post's historic decision to forgo a presidential endorsement has provoked significant backlash, leading to resignations and calls to unsubscribe. Critics, including Woodward and Bernstein, argue the move contradicts the Post's tradition of defending democracy, particularly against Trump's candidacy. Publisher Will Lewis defended the choice, claiming it allows readers to make their own decisions. The timing of the announcement has been deemed suspicious, aligning with perceptions that owner Jeff Bezos may be protecting business interests, with many lamenting the loss of journalistic independence in a critical electoral period.