On Oct. 25, The Plain Dealer published a prominent front-page editorial endorsing a candidate in Ohio’s gubernatorial race (“We cannot remain silent: Amy Acton for governor”). The paper characterized this reversal of its endorsement policy for this election as a “duty to speak.” Although clearly labeled as an editorial, placing such a forceful endorsement on the front page risks blurring the important distinction between news reporting and opinion.
Readers rely on the PD to present news fairly and to maintain clear boundaries between reporting and advocacy. In my view, this decision undermines that trust and violates the principles of journalistic integrity. After decades as a subscriber, I have decided to cancel my subscription.
