ALL ABOUT THE STORY

The former executive editor of the Washington Post reflects on his long, distinguished career and how the newspaper business has continued to evolve.

In 1972, the Post’s investigation of Watergate led not only to Richard Nixon’s resignation, but also to the establishment of reporters Carl Bernstein and Bob Woodward as major authors and the elevation of former executive editor Ben Bradlee to legendary status. The paper’s coverage of the scandal also redefined the role of investigative reporting in the future. Though much has been written about Watergate, Downie, who oversaw much of the Watergate coverage as deputy metropolitan editor, has his own story to tell. Over his 40-plus years at the newspaper, Downie, who started as a summer intern, advanced through many prominent positions before replacing the retiring Bradlee as executive editor in 1991, a position he would hold until 2008. Under his leadership, the Post provided major, award-winning coverage (25 Pulitzers) on many international events—e.g., 9/11 and the ensuing wars in Afghanistan and Iraq as well as investigations into political controversies such as the Clintons’ Whitewater investment connections and the Monica Lewinski scandal. “The rules had changed,” writes Downie of the scandal. “Adultery would never again be off limits in decisions about how to report on politicians—from the White House to statehouses to city halls. Veracity, trust, judgment, and all the other elements of, yes, character, would also come into play.” Throughout, the author provides a compelling up-close perspective of running a news organization and intriguing details about the coverage surrounding each event. While he doesn’t shy away from highlighting his leadership accomplishments, he eagerly acknowledges the efforts of his hardworking reporters. He also candidly admits to personality and leadership differences between he and the more gregarious Bradlee, comfortably remaining somewhat apart from the celebrated spotlight.

An absorbing career memoir and an illuminating history of the Post’s news coverage during the last 50 years.