United StatesOwnership & classification
Founded: 1881
Ownership
The Los Angeles Times was first published in 1881 and was owned by the Chandler family's Times Mirror Company and later Tribune Company/Tronc. Since June 2018 it has been owned by biotech billionaire Patrick Soon-Shiong, who bought it (with the San Diego Union-Tribune) through his investment vehicle Nant Capital for about $500 million plus pension obligations. Soon-Shiong controls the paper as sole proprietor via NantMedia Holdings.
Funding
The paper is financed by digital and print subscriptions, advertising, and the financial backing of its billionaire owner, who has covered operating losses. It is a private commercial enterprise with no state or party funding.
Affiliation & stance
The LA Times is privately and commercially owned by Patrick Soon-Shiong, with no party or government control; its editorial board has historically leaned center-left, though the owner has intervened in endorsement decisions. Because it is a privately held commercial newspaper free of party/state ownership, it is INDEPENDENT.
Editorial lean
- Our estimate
- Lean Progressive
- Measured from coverage
- Centerbased on 186
68/100
Factual
66/100
Objective
251
Articles
247
reports
Factual: How accurately its articles report the facts, judged against primary sources and the cross-outlet consensus. Only articles that cite their sources are counted.
Objective: How neutral the writing is — whether reporting keeps the writer’s own preferences and opinions out of the article.
Recent coverage
Drastic water cuts issued for California, Nevada and Arizona from Colorado River
Federal officials have announced significant water cutbacks for California, Nevada, and Arizona starting in 2027, requiring these states to reduce annual water usage by 1.25 million acre-feet over two years. Arizona faces the largest reductions, while upstream states like Colorado and Mexico also implement cuts under a U.S.-Mexico treaty. The decision comes amid a 26-year drought, record-low snowpack, and declining reservoir levels such as Lake Mead and Lake Powell, which are critical for hydropower and water supply. Officials emphasize the need for continued cooperation among the seven Colorado River Basin states, as current agreements are set to expire in October 2026. While some state representatives praise the agreement for providing short-term stability, they acknowledge it is not a long-term solution.
Dodgers' Value Estimated at $13 Billion — But There's a Catch
The article discusses the potential impact of a proposed Major League Baseball (MLB) salary cap on the value of the Los Angeles Dodgers franchise. It notes that while current owner Mark Walter has stated the team is not for sale, a federal investigation into him coincided with his recent $12.5 billion sale of the Los Angeles Lakers. The article highlights that NBA's hard salary cap contrasts with MLB's lack of such restrictions, allowing teams like the Dodgers to pay large sums for star players. With a new salary cap potentially increasing team valuations, analysts suggest the Dodgers could be worth up to $13 billion if the cap is implemented. The piece also mentions that both Walter and Dodgers president Stan Kasten have expressed support for greater parity in MLB, despite the team's history of high spending.
Hayden Panettiere’s Boyfriend’s Brother Reveals What He Did To Try To Save Her
Zach Hickerson, the brother of Hayden Panettiere's ex-boyfriend Brian Hickerson, revealed details about the circumstances leading to Panettiere's death. On the day of her death, Zach arrived at their Airbnb in Greenville, South Carolina, and found Brian and Panettiere unconscious. Zach called 911 while Brian administered Narcan, and together they performed CPR until emergency services arrived. Panettiere, who had a history of substance abuse and a turbulent relationship with Brian, died after efforts to revive her failed. Authorities have ruled out foul play, and an autopsy found no signs of trauma. Brian's legal team has stated they will not make further comments pending the ongoing investigation.
Former Stone Brewing employees in Escondido laid off as new owner moves production
The Los Angeles Times reports that former employees at Stone Brewing in Escondido were laid off as the company's new owner relocated production operations. The article highlights the impact on local workers and the shift in operational strategy under the new ownership. No specific details about the reasons for the layoffs or the new location of production are provided in the summary. The piece focuses on the employment changes and the restructuring efforts by the new management.
LAPD investigates Nicolas Cage movie that went missing at Netflix
The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) is investigating the disappearance of a Nicolas Cage movie from Netflix, which was reported by users as missing from the platform. The incident has raised concerns among viewers about data privacy and potential misuse of personal information. While Netflix has not officially commented on the matter, the LAPD is examining whether the removal of the film could be linked to unauthorized access or data breaches. Users who had previously accessed the movie through their accounts noticed it was no longer available, prompting reports to authorities. This case highlights growing scrutiny over how streaming services handle user data and content management.
Mexican government list of journalists and political opponents sparks outcry
The Mexican government has been criticized for allegedly compiling a list of journalists and political opponents, which has sparked international outrage. The list reportedly includes individuals who have spoken out against government policies or covered sensitive issues. Critics argue that such actions could threaten freedom of speech and press independence. The Los Angeles Times reports on the controversy, highlighting concerns over potential censorship and repression of dissenting voices.
Exclusive: Mel Brooks programs his 20 favorite films at American Cinematheque. Read the list
Mel Brooks, the renowned filmmaker and comedian, has curated a list of his 20 favorite films for exhibition at the American Cinematheque. This exclusive programming highlights Brooks' personal film selections, offering insight into his artistic influences and preferences. The American Cinematheque, known for showcasing classic and contemporary cinema, will present these films as part of a special event. Fans and cinephiles are likely to attend to experience Brooks’ curated collection, which reflects his deep connection to the film industry. The announcement provides a unique opportunity for audiences to explore the films that shaped Brooks’ career and creative vision.
Commentary: Sean Duffy's 'Great American Road Trip' is Trump-era grift posing as a reality show
The Los Angeles Times publishes a commentary criticizing Sean Duffy's 'Great American Road Trip,' describing it as a form of 'Trump-era grift' disguised as a reality television show. The piece frames the program as exploiting patriotic themes and populist rhetoric reminiscent of the Trump administration, suggesting it lacks genuine substance and serves more as a financial scheme. The author implies that the show capitalizes on nationalistic sentiments while failing to deliver meaningful content or value to participants. This critique positions the show within a broader cultural and political context, linking it to the rhetorical strategies associated with the Trump presidency.
Pomp and tuition dollars at work: USC convocation is more emotional for parents than freshmen
The article discusses the USC convocation ceremony, highlighting its emphasis on tradition and financial investment rather than academic achievement. It notes that the event is particularly emotional for parents, who see it as a culmination of their financial commitment to their children's education. The piece contrasts this parental perspective with the experience of incoming freshmen, who may view the ceremony as less personally significant. The focus is on the ceremonial aspects and the symbolic weight of tuition payments, suggesting a broader commentary on the commercialization of higher education experiences.
Judge allows controversial oil company to continue pumping, strips California of oversight
A California court has ruled that a controversial oil company can continue its operations despite ongoing environmental concerns, while simultaneously removing state regulatory oversight over its activities. The decision was made by a judge who dismissed previous legal challenges against the company, effectively allowing it to operate without significant state-level restrictions. Environmental advocates argue that this ruling undermines efforts to combat climate change and protect local communities from pollution. The oil company has faced criticism for its history of environmental violations and potential health risks to nearby residents.
Christian band Demon Hunter files trademark lawsuit against Netflix over 'consumer confusion'
The Christian band Demon Hunter has filed a trademark lawsuit against Netflix, alleging that the streaming service's use of the term 'Demon Hunter' causes 'consumer confusion.' The band claims that Netflix's branding infringes on their intellectual property and misleads audiences about the nature of their content. The lawsuit highlights concerns over brand identity and market competition, particularly in the entertainment industry. While the case focuses on legal rights, it raises broader questions about how brands navigate the intersection of faith-based messaging and mainstream media. The outcome could set a precedent for similar disputes involving religiously inspired content.
Commentary: In Karen Bass' bad debate night, she even trashed taco vendors
The article is a commentary piece criticizing California Governor Karen Bass for her poor performance during a recent debate, where she reportedly made disparaging remarks about taco vendors. The piece highlights the negative perception of her leadership and public image, suggesting that such comments reflect poorly on her judgment and connection with everyday citizens. It frames her actions as unprofessional and out of touch, contributing to broader criticism of her governance style.
Hayden Panettiere Death Probe Escalates As Feds Step In
The Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) has joined the investigation into the death of actress Hayden Panettiere, who died of an apparent overdose on August 19, 2026. The DEA is collaborating with the Greenville Police Department, similar to their involvement in the investigation of 'Friends' actor Matthew Perry's death. Panettiere was found unresponsive in a South Carolina Airbnb, with first responders indicating a cardiac arrest likely linked to an overdose. Her on-again boyfriend, Brian Hickerson, provided investigators with a bag of medications she had been taking. Panettiere had previously spoken openly about her struggles with addiction, alcohol abuse, and postpartum depression. Recent reports suggest she continued these struggles, including attempting to obtain nitrous oxide in May. Friends and representatives have denied some allegations, while a director involved in her film project mentioned discussions about an intervention but stated it did not occur.