David Shipley, the opinion editor for The Washington Post, is stepping down following a decision from the newspaper’s owner, Jeff Bezos, to refocus the section on defending “personal liberties and free markets.”

In an email sent to The Post’s staff on Wednesday, Bezos stated, “I am of America and for America, and proud to be so. Our nation has always thrived by embracing the unconventional. A pivotal aspect of America’s success stems from the freedom we enjoy in economic matters and beyond. This freedom is not only ethical, as it reduces coercion, but also practical, fostering creativity, innovation, and economic growth.”

Bezos mentioned that he had approached Shipley about continuing his role at The Post, but Shipley opted not to stay.

“I advised him that if his response wasn’t an enthusiastic ‘yes,’ then it should be considered a ‘no,’” Bezos conveyed.

In his message to the opinion team, Shipley remarked that his decision to resign came after careful consideration of how he could best advance in the field he is passionate about.

“I will always cherish the chance I had to collaborate with a dedicated team of opinion journalists whose commitment to impactful and innovative commentary inspired me daily,” Shipley expressed.

Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.