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An ballot dropbox stands outside the Supervisor of Elections Office in Palatka.
The Palatka Daily News is issuing the following policy regarding candidate coverage and letters to the editor of support or criticism as we forge into the political season.
A crowded slate of local, state and national races will be on the ballot for the Aug. 23 primary and Nov. 8 general election. Already, there are several offices with what are anticipated to be tightly fought contests and strong feelings among candidates and supporters.
This is good. Spirited contests that engage voters to think, listen to debates, consider several candidate viewpoints and become involved as volunteers and supporters are vital to the health of our democracy. It can also lead to lively news and editorial pages in your local newspaper. The Palatka Daily News has historically been Putnam County’s leading forum for the expression of support of or opposition to political candidates and issues. We hope and plan to fill that role again this year, both in our print newspaper as well as our website and social media platforms.
There are a few guidelines that need to be laid out before we draw closer to those August and November voting dates.
The Daily News will do all it can to provide a comprehensive report of races while providing ongoing local news coverage. Political coverage will be assigned based on the newspaper’s judgment as to the value of the news and staff availability. News releases by candidates or their authorized supporters are welcome, but there are no guarantees of coverage or news release usage. Candidates who want to be sure an item is published should make an advertising purchase. Affordable options and campaign packages are available by calling 386-312-5210.
LETTERS POLICY
Letters to the editor are invited and encouraged. There will be a limit of four support and four opposition letters per month on behalf of any candidate, but one letter per individual letter writer. The standard 425-word limit and copy editing rules apply.
Personal attacks and libelous remarks will not be used. Letter writers should be prepared to provide evidence of allegations raised.
No new issues of candidate criticism can be raised via letters to the editor in the final week before the primary or general election. This is a fairness question to ensure the candidate being criticized has an opportunity to respond.
CANDIDATE BIO SUBMISSIONS
The Daily News continues to accept candidate announcements and will print, free of charge on its front page, a statement of candidacy for local races only. Announcements must be 250 words or fewer and include a recent headshot photo as well as contact information.
Email candidate announcements to editor casmira Harrison at charrison@palatkadailynews.com. The submission deadline is June 20.
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