As we draw closer to the 2024 elections, here’s a November 1, 2005 editorial from William Marshak. As a newspaper, even though individual editors and writers have their own opinion, our job is to get the information out to readers.
As we approach Election Day on November 8th, it is common for political advertisements to urge voters to approve or disapprove of candidates and propositions. Pundits state their views but it is obvious that what they relate is their opinion. Political advertisements and flyers state which organization is footing the bill and from that, it is often clear where their loyalties lie. When newspapers join this game, the difference is that often these suggestions are made by unknown individuals on a mysterious editorial team. Exactly how conclusions are reached is shrouded from public view although newspapers claim they hold themselves to a high standard of impartiality.
Kings, queens and potentates often used the royal term “we” that actually indicated their own decision, at times influenced by advisors. While statements of how people should cast their vote on issues and candidates are legitimate, it would be better if the process was understood. How are decisions reached by the group of editors and/or other newspaper personnel? Are all those listed on the editorial page included in the decision(s)? If there is a split decision, how is it resolved?
As the editor of the Tri-City Voice, an independent newspaper—the only independent paper of the Tri-Cities—I take full responsibility for the editorial page and sign my name to what is written. My comments are provided as food for thought and simply reflect my opinion which is reached by listening to as many people with different viewpoints as possible. I feel that the best result for elections is a large turnout and high voter interest based on honest deliberation of the issues, not slogans and diatribes. I may not agree with the result, but our democratic system is based on the will of the people.
Vilification of public figures such as the governor can obscure the real issues. Look at the information provided by those who are advocates and those who attempt to offer balanced information such as the League of Women Voters (lwvc.org). My advice in this election is to vote! Each of the Newark city council candidates is well qualified and the state propositions deserve your consideration.
