Despite the League of Women Voters and virtually all newspapers throughout the country taking a clear position against the reporting of exit polls prior to the close of the local election day, the New Era once again ignored criticism and reported not only on the national scene but also the local Home Rule question.
The latter is especially reprehensible, since the suggestion of a one sided vote might influence votes and discourage those on the minority side from voting on the issue or even showing up.
The community should hold Editor Ernest Schreiber responsible for this breach of ethical journalistic practices. Prior disregard of industry practice was poor judgment on his part. But ignoring criticism of his paper’s conduct, especially by the League, is arrogant and irresponsible.
