Times-Mail election policy
Although it seems like we just finished a bruising election cycle, another one is just around the corner.
And this time Lawrence County residents will have the chance to vote for a number of different elected offices.
As we prep for these races, we thought candidates, their supporters, and Times-Mail readers should be aware of our election publishing policies.
Filings: We will publish those at the end of each week until the end of the filing period.
Staff stories: Sometimes political news will emerge from beats and assignments covered by Times-Mail reporters. As in the past, we’ll cover that news as it happens and when it’s appropriate. In addition, as the primary election nears, we’ll write articles highlighting contested local races. Our goal will be to provide details that inform voters about the candidates and their positions.
Announcements: Some candidates like to make formal announcements of their plans to seek office. As we’ve done in the past, we’ll accept announcements until the last day a candidate can file to run in the primary. If you want to submit an announcement, they should be no more than 600 words and may include the candidate’s biographical information as well as important issues and beliefs. Candidates also may provide us with a photo to be published with the announcement — and we’ll publish those announcements as space permits. We reserve the right to edit all announcements.
Statements: Press statements issued by candidates will be used as space permits. As with all press releases, the staff will likely edit them significantly to conform to newspaper style.
Letters: In keeping with the newspaper’s long-standing practice, we’ll accept letters to the editor about candidates, but not from candidates. As always, letters must not exceed 350 words and must be signed by the writer and include a phone number and address for verification purposes. We reserve the right to edit letters for clarity and space and to reject letters if their facts cannot be verified or if we believe them to be libelous or in poor taste.
Guest columns: Columns of support for individual candidates or parties will not be accepted.
All submissions should be sent via email to Lance Gideon at lgideon@tmnews.com.
Thanks for your cooperation — and may the best candidates win.
This article originally appeared on The Times-Mail: Times-Mail election policy
