The spokeswoman said in a statement that Tribune Publishing has been a passive investment for Soon-Shiong and that he will remain focused on his other leadership roles. However, Tribune Publishing officials confirmed to the Chicago Tribune that Soon-Shiong's proxy ballots were submitted without the "abstain" box being checked. Company officials did not respond to Crain's requests for comment. A proxy statement filed last month with the Securities & Exchange Commission noted that abstentions would be counted as votes against the merger.