How Biased Is El Tiempo? Political Leaning and Credibility Breakdown
El Tiempo Overview and Political Bias
Observers often characterize El Tiempo as a centrist to center-right outlet aligned with Colombia’s political establishment. Critics argue its coverage reflects the interests of its corporate owners, particularly regarding economic policy. Reports suggest it maintains a skeptical stance toward leftist administrations, while supporters view it as a stabilizing, professional journalistic institution.
| Standpoint | Assessment |
|---|---|
| Overall political leaning | Center Right |
| Estimated number of readers | 25,000,000 |
| Israel support | Nuanced / Establishment-aligned |
| Use of loaded / emotional language | Low |
| Target Audience | Mass market and Elite |
El Tiempo History
Founded in 1911 by Alfonso Villegas Restrepo, El Tiempo became Colombia's most influential newspaper under the long-term stewardship of the Santos family. For decades, it served as a key voice for the Liberal Party before transitioning into a diversified multimedia conglomerate that dominates the national news landscape today.
World News Map
Who owns El Tiempo?
Since 2012, El Tiempo has been owned by Luis Carlos Sarmiento Angulo, Colombia’s wealthiest individual and head of the conglomerate Grupo Aval. Funding is primarily derived from advertising, digital subscriptions, and corporate backing from Sarmiento’s business empire, which some media monitors suggest influences its editorial priorities.