Protocol, the tech-focused news site launched by Politico's parent company, laid off 13 employees on April 21, 2020, just 11 weeks after its debut. The layoffs affected both editorial and business teams, reducing the staff from 35 to 22, a cut of about 37%. Leadership cited the profound economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic as the reason, forcing a rapid adjustment despite confidence in the long-term mission. This move highlights the severe financial pressures the coronavirus placed on media companies, even newly launched ventures in the tech journalism industry backed by established players.
