McClatchy Implements Significant Layoffs at Idaho Statesman Newsroom Amidst Shifting Subscriber Interests
McClatchy Media, the parent company of the Idaho Statesman, has laid off 10 journalists and three editors, constituting 60% of the newsroom staff. Michael Lycklama, chair of the Idaho News Guild, confirmed the layoffs, stating he received only 30 minutes' notice for an HR meeting where he was informed. McClatchy cited shifting subscriber interests and changes in news consumption patterns as the reasons for its restructuring, aiming to focus resources on journalism, subscriber value, and serving local communities. This move is part of broader layoffs across McClatchy newsrooms nationwide, with Poynter reporting at least 90 journalists affected across 13 papers. The New York Times indicated that McClatchy informed employees of a 41% decline in subscriber revenue. Earlier this year, unionized newsroom employees at the Idaho Statesman had gone on a one-day strike protesting AI content and what they deemed unfair wages, eventually reaching a contract with McClatchy in June.
