Newsweek’s Evan Thomas leaving the magazine

Veteran journalist Evan Thomas is leaving Newsweek after nearly a quarter-century with the magazine.

Thomas told The Upshot that he is departing to concentrate on teaching journalism at Princeton and writing books. He's currently at work on a biography of President Dwight D. Eisenhower.

He says Newsweek's recent upheaval isn't a factor. "I made that decision a year ago," he said.

Thomas initially considered leaving at the end of 2010, but now plans to move on when the Newsweek sale closes, as early as next month. Thomas said he hopes to continue his relationship with the magazine, perhaps as a contract writer.

His departure continues a tumultuous few months for Newsweek, with the magazine on the market and some stars like Michael Isikoff jumping ship. Shortly after audio magnate Sidney Harman agreed to purchase the money-losing magazine, Editor Jon Meacham announced plans to leave, too.

But Thomas said he is optimistic about the magazine.

"I think Newsweek is in good hands," he said. "I think they have a good management team. I wish for the best. It's a tough environment, but there are some smart people involved. They pick a good editor, good things can happen."

Thomas joined Newsweek in 1986, after about a decade with rival weekly Time magazine. He worked as Washington bureau chief and assistant managing editor and is currently editor-at-large. Thomas, one of the magazine's lead writers, wrote Newsweek's 2008 election postmortem, "A Long Time Coming."

In addition to teaching, Thomas can often be found on chat shows talking politics or discussing his books, the most recent being "The War Lovers."