Introduction of the ‘Insights’ Tool and Editorial Changes
The Los Angeles Times has unveiled a new AI-powered tool, “L.A. Times Insights,” designed to analyze the political viewpoint of select articles. The tool, announced by the newspaper’s owner and executive chairman, Dr. Patrick Soon-Shiong, aims to provide readers with a clearer understanding of varying perspectives in journalism. Soon-Shiong introduced the feature in a letter to readers on Monday, alongside other editorial changes, including a new “Voices” label for pieces written from a specific point of view.
The Insights feature assigns political positions to articles and provides alternative viewpoints with links to different sources. For example, an opinion piece advocating for AI disclosure in documentaries was classified as “center left,” while another discussing the conservative movement distancing itself from the Tate brothers was labeled “right.” According to Soon-Shiong, this initiative is meant to enhance the paper’s journalistic mission by exposing readers to diverse perspectives. He stated that the tool would be used selectively on articles deemed to have a particular stance.
Union Concerns Over AI Integration and Its Impact
The introduction of the new AI-powered tool has sparked concerns among members of the Los Angeles Times Guild. Vice chair Matt Hamilton acknowledged the need for better reader comprehension regarding opinion versus news reporting but criticized the use of AI-generated analysis without editorial oversight. He argued that the tool could undermine trust in journalism rather than strengthen it.
Hamilton also pointed out that funds allocated for the AI feature could have been better used to support on-the-ground journalists, many of whom have not received a cost-of-living increase since 2021. The union’s concerns reflect broader industry tensions over the integration of artificial intelligence in journalism and its potential effects on credibility and newsroom resources.
Soon-Shiong’s letter acknowledged that the Insights tool, like other AI-driven technologies, may generate errors. Readers are encouraged to report inaccuracies through a dedicated page on the newspaper’s website, highlighting the experimental nature of the initiative.
Editorial Board Restructuring and Broader Changes at the L.A. Times
The launch of the Insights tool is the latest in a series of transformations under Soon-Shiong’s ownership. Since acquiring the newspaper in 2018, he has sought to reshape its editorial direction. His decision in late 2023 to forgo endorsing any presidential candidate in the upcoming election led to the resignation of three editorial board members. This move was followed by further changes, including hiring conservative commentator Scott Jennings as a contributor.
Amid these shifts, the L.A. Times has also undergone staffing reductions through voluntary buyouts, leading to a smaller editorial team. Former editorial writer Carla Hall, who was reportedly the last remaining board member before her departure, also accepted the buyout offer. Soon-Shiong’s efforts to introduce a broader range of perspectives, including through his appearance on Fox News and advocacy for ideological balance. These changes come as the publication explores the potential of a new AI-powered tool to enhance its operations.
