Editorial Responsibility and the Impact of Endorsement Decisions in Journalism

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To the Editor:

Regarding the article “How The Post Put an End to Endorsing” (Business, Oct. 28): I was deeply troubled to read that two highly regarded newspapers, The Washington Post and The Los Angeles Times, have chosen to abstain from endorsing either of the leading candidates in the upcoming presidential election. This raises serious questions about their editorial responsibilities during what could be one of the most pivotal elections in American history.

Unfortunately, the most credible explanation appears to be that these newspapers are engaging in what Timothy Snyder, a Yale history professor and author of the book “On Tyranny,” describes as “anticipatory obedience.” This term suggests a form of self-censorship, as they seem to be preparing for the possibility of a retributive government led by Donald Trump.

As Mr. Snyder wisely notes: “Most of the power of authoritarianism is freely given. In tumultuous times, individuals anticipate what a more oppressive regime might desire and preemptively align themselves without any external prompting.” This situation is both disheartening and alarming.

— Adam Horvath
Eugene, Ore.

To the Editor:

While the timing of The Washington Post’s decision to cease endorsing presidential candidates is indeed concerning, I believe the move itself is ultimately commendable. In our current climate of extreme partisanship and political division, the practice of newspaper endorsements has become increasingly counterproductive. It undermines the public’s perception of the independence and credibility of journalistic institutions.

This perception of bias not only influences political reporting but also extends to factual news coverage on various issues, creating a ripple effect that compromises journalistic integrity across the board. For instance, many residents in New York City with left-leaning perspectives often dismiss the reporting of The New York Post, a newspaper known for its pro-Republican stance, regardless of the factual accuracy of its content. Conversely, readers of The New York Post might automatically disregard any coverage from The New York Times for similar reasons, perpetuating a cycle of distrust.

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