OUR VIEW: Don’t blame mirror for lost election, look in mirror instead

The intent of news organizations is to inform audiences about current events and the world in which they live. Journalists strive to be objective and timely, providing a resource for information and offering a forum for discussion. The Utah Statesman and its staff are no different.
    In light of the outcome of the athletics fee election, The Utah Statesman has come under scrutiny from both sides that the paper didn’t give enough coverage or showed bias toward one side or another. We feel these concerns should be addressed.
    Coverage of the athletics fee began Jan. 28. This initial article was followed by coverage Feb. 11, Feb. 27, March 2, March 16, March 23 and March 25. These articles included information from the athletics director, the ASUSU athletics vice president, ASUSU student advocate vice president, USU’s vice president and provost, and members of the USU Board of Trustees.
    Included in our coverage was an Our View in which the paper’s editorial board debated the issue. The editorial board could not agree on one side of the issue so we presented persuasive arguments for and against. By doing so, we allowed readers to decide for themselves how to cast their ballot.
    Prior to the election, The Statesman received only two letters to the editor, both of which were from students against the athletics fee. Had we received letters supporting the fee, we would have published those as well. The section allotted for letters to the editor is a public forum. Any letters that meet the requirements are published and people on every side of this issue had plenty of time to make their opinions known.
    But that’s it. Our role ends there. After continuing coverage, it’s up to voters to make the decision.
    Whatever your feelings about the athletics fee, the election or the results, The Statesman only did its job – informing readers of the election and the issue on the ballot.
    The Statesman reflected activities surrounding this special election. That mirror should not be blamed for apathy, nor should it be held accountable for the outcome of elections or failed campaigns.

Pats and Jabs
    A pat on the back to the organizers of Science Unwrapped for placing video of their presentations online.
    And a jab in the ribs to Mother Nature for teasing us with spring and then dumping inches of snow.