Multi Media Channels (MMC), the parent company that owns the Merrill Foto News and many other local newspapers throughout the state, announced a new Letter to the Editor policy and editorial policy on political content that will be implemented in all of their papers effective immediately. We will publish the complete policy in our newspaper at least once per year. The updated policy reads:
Multi Media Channels Editorial Policy on Political Content
At Multi Media Channels (MMC), we are committed to fairness, impartiality, and factual accuracy in all political content disseminated across our 53 media units. Our editorial policy ensures that political coverage is balanced, fact-based, and free from undue influence or bias.
Political Editorial Content
1. Fact-Based Political Coverage
• All political content, whether from our editorial staff or submitted by outside sources, must be substantiated by verifiable facts.
• Editors will vet politicians objectively, covering their records, policies, and actions without taking sides or implying endorsement.
• Content will be presented without tone, subtlety, or language that could be perceived as influencing voter opinion.
2. No Political Endorsements
• MMC will not endorse any political candidate or party at any level of government.
• Equal opportunity for coverage will be provided to candidates from the two major political parties, as well as third-party or independent candidates when appropriate.
3. Focus on Local Political Races
• Coverage will prioritize local elections, political issues, and governance that directly impact our communities.
• National political coverage will only be included when it is relevant to a local story, ensuring our content remains community-focused and distinct from mainstream national media.
Letter to the Editor Policy
Letters to the Editor must include the writer’s full name, address, telephone number, and other contact information (only your name and town will appear in print and online). Letters appear space allowed; our editorial staff determines what content is published and there is no guarantee of publication.
• We will not accept a letter from an unidentified source.
• Letters should be no more than 250 words and may appear in our weekly print issue.
• Any or all stated facts, must include the substantiating source.
• Letters may be edited by our staff for length, clarity, and facts.
• The newspaper or website will only print letters that address a specific issue or article that may be of interest to the bulk of our readers.
• Submit letters to the Editor of the publication.
• Writers are limited to submitting two free Letters to the Editor per calendar year; letters in excess of that quantity must be submitted as a Paid Letter to the Editor. (See below)
We will not print letters that:
• Contain potentially libelous material. Libel is any malicious, unsubstantiated, or untrue statement about someone that damages their reputation. Submissions must have facts to back up all claims.
• Support discrimination on any grounds. This includes, but is not limited to, discrimination based on age, ability, gender, sexual orientation, religion, or culture.
• Are vulgar, profane, obscene, derogatory, or otherwise offensive.
• Make explicit or implied threats. This includes personal attacks, intimidation, bullying, or threat of harm against a person or organization.
• Contain copyrighted material or that have been printed in another publication. All Letters must be an original writing by the signer and exclusive to the Merrill Foto News.
• Identifies another person, unless that person has given their explicit consent. We assume that any person identified in a letter has consented to be mentioned in the letter.
Copyright and reprint permission:
The writer of a Letter to the Editor maintains copyright of their letter. Any other individual or organization must seek permission from the writer if they wish to reprint a Letter to the Editor.
Political Letters to the Editor
All “Letters to the Editor” submitted as an endorsement for or opposing a political candidate, referendum, or political agenda will carry the same guidelines as above; however, they will be charged $100 for the first 200 words and an additional $25 per additional 50 words. All political letters must be prepaid prior to printing. This includes any opinion trying to sway a vote. All Paid Letters to the Editor will be clearly labeled as a “Paid Letter to the Editor.” Some submissions may be referred to our advertising department to be run as ads.
The First Amendment
The First Amendment protects freedom of speech from government restrictions, not private businesses. Companies can set their own rules on speech in workplaces, online platforms, or services. While employees and users have rights, businesses can moderate, restrict, or penalize speech without violating the First Amendment since it limits only government actions
Rev: 02/18/25
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