The Baltimore Sun, a historic newspaper in Baltimore, has been acquired by David D. Smith, a conservative media executive with ties to Sinclair Broadcast Group. Since the acquisition, the paper’s editorial direction has shifted notably towards conservative coverage, with increased emphasis on crime and local political issues. Critics argue that this move prioritizes partisan agendas over balanced journalism, potentially using the paper as a platform for propagating authoritarian narratives.

The new co-owner of The Baltimore Sun announced that the paper will cease endorsing political candidates on its editorial page. The decision aims to foster a more balanced and objective editorial practice, aligning the paper with other publications that have recently abandoned the tradition of political endorsements.

Following the acquisition of The Baltimore Sun by right-wing media owner David D. Smith in January 2024, the paper has undergone a series of controversial changes. These include politically charged contributions to local campaigns and ballot measures, union busting with reported journalist firings, and the use of aggressive surveillance tactics, all of which have raised concerns over the paper's alignment with authoritarian and far‐right ideologies.

Baltimore Sun Media has been sold to local buyer David D. Smith, a conservative-leaning executive known for his ties to right-wing causes and media outlets. During a staff meeting he made politically charged statements that raised concerns about a potential shift towards partisan news coverage.

On July 27, 2023, the Baltimore Evening Sun published an article exposing how lobbyists attempted to influence nearly every piece of legislation considered in Maryland. The report serves as a watchdog effort to promote transparency and counter undue authoritarian influence in the state’s policymaking process.