The story itself had been intermittently unavailable on the site late Thursday and early Friday. The escort's story, told to Gawker writer Jordan Sargent after the escort was rebuffed, drew a torrent of criticism on Gawker's Facebook page and Twitter. Gawker now has an 'influence and audience that demands greater editorial restraint,' he wrote. In a self-assessment of sorts, Denton said Gawker has changed and must move beyond its roots as a digital muckraker. They have to reveal something meaningful. It is not enough for them simply to be true. But this decision will establish a clear standard for future stories. 'David Geithner’s embarrassment will not be eased. 'This action will not turn back the clock,' Denton wrote. He said the post 'was true and well-reported,' but said it 'does not rise to the level' of publication worthy.
On Friday, Gawker founder Nick Denton said he regretted the decision to publish the piece and acknowledged internal dissension over the move.
In a text to Gawker, David Geithner said he had no knowledge of the individual and said, 'this is a shakedown.'
