In a recent announcement, The Nation, a prominent voice in progressive politics and culture, disclosed that its current editor, D.D. Guttenplan, will transition to the role of special correspondent starting August 1. This change follows the completion of the magazine’s 160th-anniversary special issue. Katrina vanden Heuvel, who served as The Nation’s editor from 1995 to 2019, will resume her role as editor while continuing as the publisher.
Guttenplan, in his capacity as special correspondent, will return to his roots in political reporting, contributing regular features to both the print and digital formats of The Nation. Additionally, he will further engage with The Nation’s audio initiatives by hosting a new interview podcast series debuting in April, building on the success of his previous limited series election podcast, See How They Run.
Throughout his tenure as editor, Guttenplan has focused on the magazine’s future, welcoming new voices and reimagining the print edition as an expanded monthly issue. He also played a pivotal role in relaunching TheNation.com and facilitated significant growth in the publication’s brand extensions and podcasts. Since the election of Trump, The Nation has achieved a double-digit increase in subscribers, with a 14 percent year-over-year growth, and a 42 percent spike in individual donors.
Katrina vanden Heuvel returns to The Nation with a renewed goal of confronting the Trump administration through rigorous reporting and addressing the increasing threat of oligarchy. As many publications face challenges, The Nation remains committed to advocating for truth, defending free speech, and promoting democratic ideals. Vanden Heuvel emphasized The Nation’s historical mission to persist in providing alternative visions and ideas during both favorable and unfavorable times.
Reflecting on his editorship, Guttenplan expressed pride in the work achieved during his time leading The Nation. Under his guidance, the magazine covered significant issues such as Black Lives Matter, COVID-19, the Palestinian struggle, climate change, and abortion access. He acknowledged the struggles the magazine industry has faced but lauded The Nation’s ability to adapt and thrive.
Vanden Heuvel praised Guttenplan for his leadership and contributions, acknowledging his role in infusing the magazine with energy and his commitment to fostering a new generation of voices. His tenure, she noted, has left the magazine poised for future strength.
During Guttenplan’s leadership, The Nation welcomed noteworthy columnists and reporters, including justice correspondent Elie Mystal, national affairs correspondent Jeet Heer, DC bureau chief Chris Lehmann, and strikes correspondent Jane McAlevey. In a milestone move, The Nation became the first national publication to appoint a Palestine correspondent, Mohammed El-Kurd, in 2021.
The Nation received numerous accolades during this period from esteemed organizations such as the Park Center for Independent Media, the Society of Environmental Journalists, and the National Women’s Political Caucus, among others. Notably, for the first time, it was recognized as a finalist for the National Magazine Awards for General Excellence, Literature, Science and Politics.
D.D. Guttenplan and Katrina vanden Heuvel are available for media comments in New York City. For interview requests or more information, interested parties can contact Caitlin Graf at The Nation.
Established by abolitionists in 1865, The Nation has documented the evolution of political and cultural life, marking its presence from the telegraph era to the age of Twitter, remaining a critical and independent voice in American journalism.
