Legal scholar Mark Goldfeder publicly criticized The New York Times on May 22, 2026, for publishing a defense of journalist Nick Kristof's reporting. Goldfeder's critique, shared via Twitter, specifically targeted the timing of the article, alleging it was released "Right as Jews are going offline for a holiday," and accused the publication of ignoring the "substance of the problem." This incident highlights ongoing tensions between certain journalistic practices and community sensitivities, particularly concerning the timing of significant publications.
Goldfeder's tweet, directed at @nytimes, stated, > "Of course you did, @nytimes. Right as Jews are going offline for a holiday, you publish a classic sidestep piece, trying to once again defend @NickKristof's indefensibly poor reporting." He further elaborated, > "Your failure of a defense ignores the substance of the problem and addresses only the process." Goldfeder's strong words indicate a deep dissatisfaction with the Times' approach to addressing concerns regarding Kristof's work.
The timing of the article, coinciding with a Jewish holiday, was a central point of Goldfeder's objection. While not explicitly named in the tweet, May 22, 2026, falls on a Friday, and the Jewish holiday of Shavuot often occurs in late May or early June, beginning at sundown. Observant Jews typically refrain from using electronic devices and engaging in secular activities during such holidays, making the timing of the publication particularly contentious for Goldfeder.
Nick Kristof is a well-known American journalist and author, a two-time Pulitzer Prize winner, recognized for his extensive coverage of human rights and global issues. His reporting, while often lauded, has also faced scrutiny and criticism from various quarters regarding its factual basis or framing. Mark Goldfeder, an expert in religious law and a senior fellow at the National Jewish Advocacy Center, frequently comments on legal and ethical issues, particularly those touching on religious freedom and community concerns.
This public rebuke from Goldfeder underscores a broader debate about journalistic accountability and the media's engagement with diverse communities. Critics often argue that major news outlets sometimes overlook the impact of their reporting on specific groups, particularly concerning timing and content during religious observances. The incident prompts questions about editorial oversight and the responsibility of news organizations to consider the cultural and religious calendars of their readership when publishing potentially controversial content.
