Will Lewis, who led The Washington Post for two years, is stepping down amid growing backlash after the paper announced widespread layoffs, according to a memo shared by White House bureau chief Matt Viser on X. Lewis thanked owner Jeff Bezos for his support and emphasized his efforts to secure the paper’s “sustainable future” and continue publishing “high-quality nonpartisan news.”

Jeff D’Onofrio, the paper’s chief financial officer since June 2025, has been appointed acting CEO and publisher. D’Onofrio said in a press release that he is “honored to take the lead in securing both the legacy and business” of the Post.

Bezos praised the leadership team, highlighting the paper’s mission and the opportunity to focus on reader priorities, and said the Post is positioned for a “thriving next chapter.”

Lewis and Bezos faced criticism after executive editor Matt Murray announced the layoffs, impacting roughly one-third of the staff. Critics noted Lewis’ low-profile presence, particularly following his blunt June 2024 remarks to employees that readership had declined and the outlet was losing money.

The backlash intensified when Lewis was seen attending a pre–Super Bowl event in San Francisco shortly after the layoffs were announced, fueling further scrutiny of his leadership style and engagement with the newsroom.

Murray defended Lewis’ involvement, stating that he had been closely engaged in decisions across the company, despite staff perceptions of his absence. Lewis’ departure marks a swift leadership change as the Post seeks to navigate financial pressures and newsroom morale.