Olivia Nuzzi’s Memoir Sparks Controversy Among Journalists

NEW YORK, NY — The release of political reporter Olivia Nuzzi’s memoir, “American Canto,” has led to revealing claims about her alleged affairs and stirred discussions about journalistic integrity. Nuzzi, known for her close connections with Republican figures, shared an excerpt from her memoir earlier this week.

In the excerpt, Nuzzi describes an emotional affair with a figure she refers to as “the politician.” This revelation follows an essay by Ryan Lizza, Nuzzi’s ex-fiancé and former Politico correspondent, in which he claims that Nuzzi cheated on him with Mark Sanford, a former South Carolina governor.

The back-and-forth between Nuzzi and Lizza has captivated media outlets. Their personal drama surfaced alongside a glamorous profile of Nuzzi in The New York Times, where she was compared to a “Lana Del Rey song come to life.” The profile highlighted her correspondence with Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and her advisory role in his campaign.

Nuzzi recounted how Kennedy reassured her after a doctor stated he was healthy, saying, “Baby, don’t worry.” These details, however, have drawn criticism about the potential implications for trust in journalism. A recent Gallup poll found that only 28% of Americans trust the media to report the news accurately.

Patrick R. Johnson, a journalism professor at Marquette University, commented on the situation, saying, “This dirty laundry being aired will not help journalism’s trust problem.” He noted that such high-profile dramas can lead the public to generalize about all journalists.

As the drama unfolded, Lizza indicated in his essay that there would be more to his side of the story. He used metaphors of invasive plants to symbolize Nuzzi’s secrecy, suggesting a deeper narrative about her relationships with influential figures.

Nuzzi’s profile and memoir excerpts have ignited discussions about the portrayal of female journalists. Critics argue that they perpetuate harmful stereotypes and undermine the credibility of their peers. Moira Donegan, writing for The Guardian, expressed concern that such allegations make it challenging for female journalists to maintain professional integrity.

Despite their polarizing personal lives, Nuzzi and Lizza are not widely recognized outside New York and political circles. Their stories, while engaging, raise significant questions about the broader implications for journalism as they reflect a troubling trend in the media landscape.

As Nuzzi prepares for the full release of her memoir on December 2, 2025, the fallout from her personal and professional relationships will likely continue to capture public attention.