By Bill Marcum

Publisher

Every election, I am asked about endorsements by the newspaper of candidates – I’m asked by the candidates themselves, their staff and readers of The Courier-Herald.

Last week was no exception as we continued to meet with candidates running for the various seats in our legislative districts and seats in Washington D.C., nearly all wanting the endorsement of this newspaper.

My stance on this has not changed. My belief is it is the newspaper’s responsibility to provide you the reader, taxpayer and citizen with as much information about both candidates as we are able to print. We have hosted debates so we can all meet these candidates and hear first-hand how they are planning to make a difference in Olympia or Washington, D.C.

Armed with this knowledge, you can decide which candidate you want to represent us. Daily newspapers for some reason feel a need to tell you who they endorse, who you should cast your vote for. I have never understood this. I spent 20 of my 29 years in daily newspapers in Oregon and Washington and never could figure this out.

I want my paper to be a voice for all who are running for an office, a voice for the reader to respond via letters to the editor and a vehicle for learning, understanding and educating ourselves about the propositions and candidates, so we can all make the best and most knowledgeable decision we can. Every election I will stand by my decision to let you make up your own mind about which candidate you believe will fulfill his or her promises and help make this state or country a better place to live and work.

For the upcoming primary election, don’t forget to send in your ballot or vote on Aug. 17.