I can't speak to the validity of the conspiracy theory, but there is a stronger basis for it than that: The writers at the NYT are unionized and consequently d

I can't speak to the validity of the conspiracy theory, but there is a stronger basis for it than that: The writers at the NYT are unionized and consequently derive above-market wages as a result of labor regulations. Gig economy companies like Uber undermine labor regulations, like the kind that empower unionized workforces like the NYT's. Still the theory has a pretty flimsy basis of support.