Win McCormack
Win McCormack
Editor-in-Chief of Tin House Magazine and Tin House Books
Editor-in-Chief of Tin House Magazine and Tin House Books
Win McCormack is an American editor, publisher, author, and political activist whose career has covered literature, journalism, and public affairs for more than four decades. Recognized as the founder and editor-in-chief of Tin House and the owner of The New Republic, he has helped shape publications that influence cultural and political conversations in the United States. From his work in regional publishing to his leadership of nationally known media organizations, he has consistently supported long-form writing, editorial independence, and the development of enduring institutions.
Born Winthrop Laflin McCormack, he grew up in a family connected to public service, law, and finance. His father, Alfred McCormack, worked in military intelligence during World War II before later serving in a senior position at the State Department. Through his mother's family, he also had ties to the founders of a major Chicago financial institution.
Win attended Phillips Academy in Andover before continuing his education at Harvard College, where he earned a degree in government. Between these academic experiences, he spent time in Indonesia as an American Field Service exchange student. The experience introduced him to international perspectives at an early age. After graduating from college, he worked in teaching and social services before earning an MFA in creative writing from the University of Oregon.
McCormack's entry into publishing occurred while he was pursuing graduate studies. Following involvement in a congressional campaign, he invested in the Oregon Times magazine. He later became the magazine's publisher and renamed it Oregon Magazine, serving as editor from 1976 to 1988. During that period, the publication earned recognition for its investigative reporting and commitment to in-depth journalism.
At the same time, he expanded his media activities through his role as co-owner and treasurer of MediAmerica, Inc. The company published several regional magazines focused on business, travel, and lifestyle topics. His early publishing career also included helping establish Mother Jones magazine and contributing to publications such as Military History Quarterly and Art and Auction.
In the late 1990s, Win founded Tin House, a literary magazine that became known for publishing both established and emerging writers. Featuring fiction, poetry, and essays, the publication developed a respected editorial identity that emphasized creativity and literary excellence. Its influence helped shape contemporary American literary culture.
The creation of Tin House Books in 2005 expanded the organization's publishing role. The imprint released award-winning books across a range of genres and strengthened its impact within the literary community. In 2003, he also launched the Tin House Summer Workshop, providing writers with opportunities for study, mentorship, and collaboration. Although the magazine ended its quarterly print publication in 2019, the Tin House platform continues through its books, workshops, and other literary programs.
In 2016, Win McCormack acquired The New Republic, a political magazine founded in 1914. As editor-in-chief, he led the publication through a transitional period while renewing its focus on long-form political and cultural journalism. His approach balanced respect for the magazine's history with the need to remain relevant in a changing media landscape.
This stage of his professional life reflected his broader commitment to preserving established institutions and helping them adapt to new challenges. By emphasizing editorial depth and continuity, he contributed to the publication's ongoing role in political and cultural commentary.
One of McCormack's most important journalistic efforts took place during his time at Oregon Magazine, where he directed an extensive investigation into the Rajneesh movement in Oregon. Over several years, the publication produced detailed reporting on the group's activities and related developments that had previously received limited attention. The investigation earned recognition from journalism organizations and was later collected in his book, The Rajneesh Chronicles, which is widely regarded as a significant account of the events.
In addition, he authored You Don’t Know Me: A Citizen’s Guide to Republican Family Values. He has also written essays and commentary for publications including The Nation and several regional outlets. Through both reporting and analysis, he has remained engaged in political and cultural discussions.
Beyond publishing, Win has been active in philanthropic and political initiatives associated with progressive causes. He helped found the Liberty Hill Foundation, an organization that supports grassroots activism and community-based efforts addressing systemic issues. The foundation focused on directing resources toward local organizers and initiatives that often received limited attention from traditional philanthropic institutions.
His political involvement has included participation in Democratic Party activities, work on national campaigns, and service on boards dedicated to education, public policy, and the humanities.
Throughout his career, Win McCormack has combined literary interests with organizational leadership, helping sustain publications that contribute to both artistic and political discourse. His dedication to long-form journalism, independent publishing, and supporting emerging voices has remained central to his work. Today, he continues to participate in publishing and public life through the institutions, publications, and programs he has helped establish and lead.