Midwest newspapers run fewer endorsements

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Editor’s note: This is a preview of an article that appears in the November issue of Gateway Journalism Review.

Editorial endorsements of political candidates are a rich and important tradition of U.S. newspapers. Though time-consuming and controversial, endorsements are an important part of the democratic process and civic duty of newspapers. However, waning circulation and cuts in editorial staffs at many newspapers have resulted in fewer editorial endorsements.

The Kansas City Star and St. Louis Post-Dispatch are cutting back on endorsements. The Star no longer is endorsing in some local races. The Post-Dispatch no longer endorses in state house races.

Editors from seven newspapers across the Midwest provided a look at how the editorial endorsement process has changed and what challenges they face during the process while discussing the impact of changes on voters.

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