Dr. Patrick Soon-Shiong, the owner of the Los Angeles Times and a prominent medical inventor, has faced scrutiny for his public support of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and his decision to retract an endorsement of then-Vice President Kamala Harris. Despite accusations of ulterior motives, Soon-Shiong dismisses such claims as “cynical.” Amidst a backdrop of declining trust in media, Soon-Shiong advocates for a more balanced approach to political coverage, even in opinion pieces. Notably, he has actively endorsed Kennedy, a vaccine skeptic known for spreading false health claims, on social media. This support has sparked controversy within the paper, leading to editorial clashes and resignations.

Soon-Shiong’s alignment with Trump-friendly figures and his social media posts have raised concerns about the editorial direction of the Los Angeles Times. His involvement in editorial decisions, including the modification of an op-ed criticizing Kennedy, has drawn criticism for potential bias. Despite these controversies, Soon-Shiong defends his actions as attempts to present diverse perspectives.

The article points out the contrast between Soon-Shiong’s personal views and the editorial direction of the Los Angeles Times, which has prompted speculation about his influence on the paper’s content. As a figure with vested interests in the health sector and a history of engaging with prominent political figures, Soon-Shiong’s actions have sparked debates about journalistic integrity and editorial independence.