Globe and Mail public editor Sylvia Stead argued that “it’s okay to pick a winner” when covering the U.S. presidential election debates for news coverage.
In her Oct. 18 blogpost, Stead addressed readers complaints about accusations of bias through words and photographs of U.S. presidential candidates Barack Obama and Mitt Romney. For example, Stead wrote two readers claimed the Globe and Mail’s characterization that “Obama (finally) landed during the second debate” indicated bias. But, Stead wrote:
“Part of news coverage is noting a winner in a debate and also noting that Obama finally, yes finally, after a weak performance in the first debate, did perform better the second time. Our readers expect experienced political reporters and columnists to do more than just report on what was said. They need to explain what went right and wrong, why it matters and what the candidates need to do in the campaign – without showing favouritism or bias toward either side.”
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