538, the renowned data-driven news and analysis website, is set to close its doors as part of a larger restructuring effort by ABC News and Disney Entertainment. Named after the number of electors in the US Electoral College, 538 has been a go-to source for predictions, analysis, and poll watching leading up to election nights. The decision to shut down the site comes as Disney reportedly plans to cut 200 positions across its ABC News Group and Disney Entertainment Networks.
The closure of 538 marks another chapter in the broader media industry's ongoing struggle with mass layoffs. The site employed about 35 individuals in early 2023; however, the workforce had been in decline since founder Nate Silver left two years ago when his contract with Disney expired. By the time of the announcement, only 15 employees remained, less than half of the team from earlier this year.
“My heart goes out to the people there. They were tremendously hard-working and produced a lot of extremely valuable data and insight for everyone who wants to understand politics better. They deserved much better.” – Silver
The impending layoffs represent just under 6% of the combined staff at ABC News and Disney Entertainment. Employees are expected to be informed as early as Wednesday. This news arrives alongside additional announcements, including the consolidation of the ABC news magazine shows "20/20" and "Nightline" into a single program, which will also lead to job cuts.
The impact of these cuts extends beyond just numbers, as former employees reflect on their time at 538.
“FiveThirtyEight was such a wonderful place to work, filled with some of the most supportive, creative, and thoughtful coworkers a person could ask for,” – Maggie Koerth
“Most of us were laid off in 2023, but the remaining staff deserved (and deserve) better,” – Maggie Koerth
Maggie Koerth, a science journalist formerly with 538, echoed sentiments of loss and resilience in a Bluesky post, emphasizing the dedication and camaraderie among her colleagues.