New York Magazine Parts Ways with Political Reporter Olivia Nuzzi After Investigation

In a significant development, New York Magazine has officially parted ways with political reporter Olivia Nuzzi after an investigation into her undisclosed personal relationship with Robert F. Kennedy Jr. The decision, which was described as mutual, follows nearly eight years of Nuzzi’s work as the magazine’s Washington Correspondent, during which she earned a reputation for her sharp and incisive reporting.

The Investigation and Its Findings

The investigation into Nuzzi’s personal relationship with Kennedy was conducted by the law firm Davis Wright Tremaine. It found no inaccuracies or evidence of bias in her reporting during the 2024 campaign. The investigation’s findings were consistent with the results of the magazine’s internal review, which also cleared her work of any wrongdoing.

Despite these conclusions, New York Magazine and Nuzzi decided to part ways. In its statement, the magazine praised Nuzzi as a “uniquely talented writer” and expressed gratitude for her contributions to political journalism.

Nuzzi’s attorney, Ari Wilkenfeld, stated that his client was “gratified though not surprised” by the investigation’s outcome, which confirmed that her reporting was accurate and professional. He added that the decision to part ways was mutual and amicable.

Nuzzi’s Relationship with RFK Jr.

The controversy began when Nuzzi admitted to having a personal relationship with Robert F. Kennedy Jr., though she clarified that the relationship was not physical. She told The New York Times, “Some communication between myself and a former reporting subject turned personal.” Importantly, Nuzzi also stressed that she did not cover Kennedy directly during the relationship.

Kennedy’s spokesperson denied any prolonged contact with Nuzzi, stating that he had met her only once for an interview. That interview resulted in a profile titled “The Mind-Bending Politics of RFK Jr.’s Spoiler Campaign,” published in November 2023, which Kennedy described as a “hit piece.”

The Legacy of Olivia Nuzzi’s Reporting

Olivia Nuzzi’s nearly eight-year career with New York Magazine was marked by her bold and unflinching coverage of political events, earning her a prominent place among Washington journalists. Her ability to delve into the complexities of American politics, combined with her distinctive voice, garnered her a loyal readership. While the circumstances surrounding her departure are unfortunate, her career will undoubtedly continue to leave an impact on political journalism.