I have been reading the Herald in hopes of receiving some unbiased information on Everett’s two mayoral candidates. I find myself dismally disillusioned by political reporter Jerry Cornfield in his attempts to sway the public to favor the Herald’s endorsed candidate. Endorsing a candidate is fine, but I truly believe a reporter who is serving a public newspaper has the responsibility to represent the candidates in an honest and truthful manner.
The Herald’s Oct. 15 article in which each candidate responded to Cornfield’s questions was obviously misaligned to favor the endorsed candidate, choosing to edit candidate Tuohy making it appear her response began with “I don’t’ know.” I was also disgusted by the ugly online ad which used Cornfield’s manipulated “I don’t know” response hitting a new low!
Another problem was the Nov. 1 alarming headline, “Tuohy now opposes Safe Streets” which was a total fabrication by an editor. I believe Tuohy is considering the taxpayers, to re-prioritize the initiative and use the money more efficiently and effectively. The correction on Nov. 2 regarding the error was appreciated but the damage was done.
The challenge is to give us a fair and honest review of the candidates, but I believe Cornfield went beyond what an objective reporter should present. To edit a candidate’s response repeatedly, misleading others, is just plain deceitful. I’m afraid Jerry Cornfield has lost his credibility with me and others who can see through his inaccurate censoring. The Herald should be concerned; their reputation as a valid source of information is at stake.
Angela Potts
Marysville
Opinion editor’s note: It is The Herald’s policy to keep a separation between the news department and the opinion page. The Herald Editorial Board’s endorsements of political campaigns do not factor into campaign coverage. Herald reporters do not participate in the endorsement process. Nor does the editorial board direct reporters’ coverage.
Likewise, The Herald is not responsible for the content of paid advertising and is obligated to run all campaign ads submitted.
Regarding the headline for the Nov. 1 print edition, the executive editor agreed the headline was inaccurate and a front-page correction was published the next day.
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