The Belleville News-Democrat has significantly reduced its newsroom staff due to nationwide layoffs at its parent company, McClatchy. At least four journalists were let go, leaving only the executive editor and two reporters. This move is part of McClatchy's strategy to address declining revenue and reshape its newsrooms. The company has faced financial difficulties for years, including a bankruptcy filing in 2020. These cuts impact one of the few publications serving the Metro East region of Illinois.
Belleville, IL
https://www.stlpr.org/news-briefs/2026-09-11/belleville-news-democrat-newsroom-staff-mcclatchy-layoffs