Jeffrey Bruce Klein, a Founder and Editor of Mother Jones, Dies at 77
Jeffrey Bruce Klein, one of the co-founders of Mother Jones magazine, passed away at the age of 77 on March 13 at his home in Menlo Park, Calif. He played a significant role in shaping the publication’s left-wing politics and later returned as editor in chief in 1992 to attract a younger, more digital audience.
Klein, originally from the East Coast, was drawn to the Bay Area in the 1960s by the vibrant left-wing journalism scene. Alongside Adam Hochschild, Paul Jacobs, and Richard Parker, he founded Mother Jones in 1976 with a focus on government corruption, corporate accountability, and money in politics.
The magazine was named after Mary Harris Jones, a prominent labor leader, and quickly gained recognition for its groundbreaking investigative journalism. Klein’s editorial vision led to the publication of a wide range of stories, including a memoir by Chinese writer Li-Li Ch’en and exposés on figures like Bill Walton and Richard V. Allen.
In the early 1990s, Mother Jones faced a decline in readership, prompting Klein to return as editor in chief. He implemented a tech-savvy approach to investigative reporting, covering topics such as Silicon Valley and the internet boom. Klein’s efforts paid off, with subscriptions increasing by 25% over five years.
Despite his success, Klein faced internal conflict over the magazine’s direction, ultimately resigning in 1998 due to disagreements with the board. He continued to make significant contributions to journalism, teaching at Stanford and producing award-winning programs for “PBS NewsHour.”
Klein’s legacy extends beyond his editorial work, including his writing of a science fiction thriller and his unique perspective on politics. His impact on investigative journalism and his commitment to challenging established narratives will be remembered by colleagues, readers, and his family.
