🗳️ Policy Update: Edgewater Gazette Endorsement Policy

Effective Date: November 11, 2025 Issued By: Editorial Board, Edgewater Gazette

Purpose

To reaffirm our commitment to transparency, journalistic integrity, and civic responsibility, the Edgewater Gazette is updating its endorsement policy for political candidates and ballot initiatives.

Key Changes

• Editorial Independence: All endorsements will be made solely by the Editorial Board. Reporters and contributors are not involved in endorsement decisions and maintain strict neutrality in their coverage.

• Disclosure of Criteria: Endorsements will be based on a candidate’s qualifications, policy positions, public service record, and alignment with community values. We will publish a clear rationale for each endorsement.

• Community Engagement: Prior to issuing endorsements, the Editorial Board will host public forums and solicit reader feedback to ensure diverse perspectives are considered.

• No Early Endorsements: The Gazette will not endorse any candidate before the conclusion of the primary election process, ensuring fair consideration of all contenders.

• Ballot Initiatives: Endorsements on referenda and amendments will include a detailed analysis of potential impacts, with input from subject-matter experts and community stakeholders.

Transparency & Accountability

• All endorsement decisions will be published in a dedicated section of our website and print edition.

• Readers may submit letters to the editor in response to endorsements, which will be considered for publication.

• The Gazette will disclose any potential conflicts of interest related to endorsements.