James Bennet, who for the past 10 years has been editor-in-chief of The Atlantic, is rejoining The New York Times to succeed Andrew Rosenthal as editorial page editor.
Rosenthal is stepping down, which was announced by publisher Arthur Sulzberger, Jr. Rosenthal’s departure will take place in late April and Bennet will join the Times on May 2.
“It’s a tremendous honor to have the chance to succeed Andy Rosenthal, an editor I’ve known and looked up to since I covered politics for him at The Times 20 years ago,” Bennet said. “I’m looking forward to joining my new colleagues to continue his work imagining all the new possibilities for intelligent commentary in these times.”
Prior to The Atlantic, Bennet served in various positions at the Times from 1991 until 2006, including White House correspondent, Magazine staff writer and Jerusalem bureau chief.
“I am delighted that James has agreed to return to The Times where he did so much exceptional work over 15 years,” Sulzberger said. “When we lost him to The Atlantic ten years ago, those of us who worked with him knew that he would usher in the resurgence of that great publication.”
Rosenthal became The Times editorial page editor in January 2007 after having previously served as deputy editorial page editor since 2003. He’s been thinking about leaving since last year.
“Since Arthur began the public discussions last fall about succession planning for himself, I also have been thinking about my own plans. I feel very honored to have served in this position for longer than any editorial page editor in the modern history of The Times and during a period of such sweeping change, both in our business and in the world we cover,” Rosenthal said. “It’s been a great challenge and great fun.”
Rosenthal is “looking forward to the opportunity to step back” and focus on writing about subjects that are personal to him.
“Andy truly redefined what it means to be editorial page editor by understanding and undertaking an important role in the leadership of the company,” Sulzberger said. “On a personal note, we’ve known each other for a very long time and I’m deeply grateful to him for the innumerable contributions he has made to this institution. I look forward to those that lie ahead.”