I mean, reporters, writers and editors gotta eat too. Journalism is already shit enough as it is, so I can understand that some outlets prefer a paywall over plastering their websites with ads or just downright selling out.

I don't even mind paying if it's good work (and I do), but most articles I read are obviously bought and paid for already. That being the case, why would I pay for something that's already bought and paid for by someone else?