Teen Vogue to Close Amid Controversy Over Political Coverage

BREAKING: Teen Vogue, the influential publication known for its political engagement, is set to close as part of Condé Nast’s restructuring, raising urgent concerns about the future of teen media. This announcement came earlier this week, with Condé Nast declaring that the 22-year-old brand will now be folded into the Vogue.com umbrella, a move that critics argue threatens its unique editorial voice and hard-hitting political journalism.

The decision follows the reported layoff of six editorial staffers, many of whom are women of color or transgender, drawing ire from unions and advocates for marginalized voices. The NewsGuild of New York condemned the layoffs, stating they disproportionately affect underrepresented employees. “Condé Nast’s consolidation plans for Teen Vogue are clearly designed to blunt the award-winning magazine’s insightful journalism,” the union stated, highlighting the timing as particularly troubling amid a climate of increasing censorship in media.

Teen Vogue, which has transformed from a fashion-centric publication to a robust platform for political discourse, has garnered attention for its bold coverage of issues like the climate crisis, social justice, and LGBTQ+ rights. The magazine was awarded the 2025 Freedom of Speech medal by the Roosevelt Institute earlier this year, emphasizing its role in centering the voices of young people. The institute’s statement lamented, “We are all worse off without their reporting.”

As the magazine transitions, Versha Sharma, Teen Vogue’s top editor, is stepping down, with Chloe Malle, American Vogue’s head of editorial content, taking over the editorial reins. Critics worry that this shift signals a dilution of the magazine’s mission to engage with pressing societal issues. Many believe that merging with the Vogue brand—a primarily fashion-focused entity—will stifle Teen Vogue’s groundbreaking political coverage.

Amid this upheaval, the abrupt dismissal of four unionized employees has further escalated tensions within the company, as they were fired after confronting management regarding the Teen Vogue closure. This incident underscores a broader trend of corporate consolidation impacting journalistic integrity, particularly for outlets that prioritize diverse perspectives.

Experts warn that this move reflects a troubling cultural shift in the media landscape, especially during a time when young people are becoming increasingly politically aware. “The shuttering of Teen Vogue suggests that young women’s political power remains a threat to institutions,” noted Jessalynn Keller, a media expert from the University of Calgary. This sentiment echoes across social media, where former Teen Vogue staff and supporters express fears over losing a vital platform for youth voices.

In response to the closure, a spokesperson from Condé Nast stated that bringing Teen Vogue under the Vogue umbrella is intended to enhance its reach and resources. However, the spokesperson did not address concerns regarding the magazine’s future political coverage, leaving stakeholders anxious about the implications for young journalists and politically engaged readers.

As the teen media landscape continues to evolve, the implications of Teen Vogue’s closure resonate beyond its pages. The decision raises critical questions about the future of journalism aimed at younger audiences and the vital narratives that may now be silenced.

The situation is developing, and many are calling for accountability from Condé Nast. The future of Teen Vogue as a distinct voice for youth advocacy remains uncertain, with advocates urging for the preservation of its legacy in the face of corporate pressures.