How the Times Union covers elections and politics

Through resources like our voter guide, the Times Union provides readers with information about all the candidates running for elected office in the communities we cover. The primary purpose of our election coverage is to enable voters to make informed choices about candidates and policy issues. We aim to cover all parties and interest groups in a non-partisan and impartial manner. We also have a responsibility to be a watchdog to those in power and those who seek to rule, and to seek solutions to problems in our communities.

Our coverage of candidates and political topics may vary based on the following factors: How many people are affected by this candidate or political issue? How relevant is the candidate or policy issue to the daily lives of local community members? Would a reasonable person believe that the candidate’s actions or policy issue were new and noteworthy? We’re not able to cover every candidate for office in every race in the Capital Region and Hudson Valley, so we may do more in-depth coverage of races for the most influential political positions, races that readers show interest in, and races that are competitive.

We never accept payments or gifts of any kind from sources. Although candidates or government agencies may submit stories to us, we use our independent judgment to determine whether these issues are newsworthy for our communities.

How do you select sources?

Our reporters try to connect with more sources for factual and important information about our communities. To guide and inform our work, we seek the help of people who are experts in their fields and ordinary people who know their communities. To eliminate blind spots in our coverage, we strive to interview sources from diverse backgrounds and backgrounds who can bring different perspectives to our journalism. Whether it’s a document or a quote, we also use primary sources or first-hand accounts when available. Any source cited in an article has the opportunity to comment, whether or not they choose to do so.

What about anonymous sources?

We use anonymous sources only when necessary. We primarily use them when there is strong evidence that disclosing the source’s identity would harm them personally or professionally, and the information they hold cannot be obtained elsewhere. When we use an anonymous source, we use a rigorous process to verify what they say. Use of an anonymous source must be approved by an editor. We do not provide anonymity for the purpose of making a political or personal attack.

Can Times Union reporters get involved in politics?

While Times Union reporters are eligible to vote, they must demonstrate professional objectivity at all times and cannot engage in other political activities. They may not give money to or raise money for candidates or political causes, register with a political party, seek public office, display campaign paraphernalia, march or protest in response to public causes or movements, or endorse candidates.

Reporters must be aware of their own biases and work with their editors to ensure that their journalism covers multiple perspectives and all relevant facts. Reporters cannot report on topics where they have a conflict of interest, such as a family member or close friend working at the company or in the field.

These and other matters are covered by Times Union standards and practices, which all newsroom employees are required to follow.

Why is the Times Union editorial board supporting the candidates?

Like many news organizations, the Times Union has a long tradition of supporting candidates in elections. We believe that our deep attention to government and politics, and the access we have to elected officials and candidates, gives us the opportunity—and the responsibility—to offer an informed opinion on race. We do not weigh all races, but in recent years we have mainly focused on the more competitive and high profile ones.

Editor-in-Chief Casey Saylor explained why the Times Union is supporting the candidates in a recent column. He writes: “Editorials are intended to express a strong point of view that is based on the best information available to the people who write them. Why shouldn’t that apply to candidates vying for the chance to set public policy—on the environment, education, crime, and every other topic that should matter to citizens—as well as opinion on the policies themselves?”

How does the Editorial Board approve applicants?

The editorial board considers candidates’ positions on key issues, their relevant work experience, their track record in community and government, their temperament and their candor, among other things. In many cases, the board also interviews the candidates, especially when we feel there are outstanding questions that the news, debates, their own websites and other sources of information have not answered.

Does the editorial board influence reporters to write favorable articles about endorsed candidates?

As our editorial policy states, while Times Union news often informs our editorials, the opinions of the board are not relevant to this coverage.

Have other questions about the Times Union’s political coverage?

Please share your questions or comments with us. We welcome your feedback and are committed to continuous improvement.

This is a living document that will be updated with more questions and answers as needed based on the feedback we receive by listening to the community. It may be updated more than once before or after the 2022 election.