During presidential elections, many newspapers attempt to remain unbiased. While they might praise one candidate more than the other, few newspapers actually endorse candidates. However, the bizarre nature of the 2016 presidential election has caused many historically neutral newspapers to actually come out and endorse one presidential candidate. These newspapers are urging their voters to all vote for Hillary Clinton.
One shocking example of this has been renowned newspaper USA Today. USA Today never really weighs in on the potential merits and qualifications of presidential candidates. However, in 2016, the newspaper editors decided it was finally worth it to stop taking a neutral stance. According to the editorial board of USA Today, Trump is “by unanimous consensus of the Editorial Board, unfit for presidency.” After 34 years of staying out of presidential elections, the Board is concerned enough to bluntly state “Trump has demonstrated repeatedly that he lacks the temperament, knowledge, steadiness, and honesty that America needs from its presidents.”
USA Today is just one example of the many newspapers that are urging their voters to back Clinton instead of Trump. Though it is no surprise that all of the historically Democratic papers are endorsing Clinton, even many of the Republican newspapers have stated that they support her presidency over Trump’s. For example, The Cincinnati Enquirer, The Arizona Republic, The Dallas Morning News, and the San Diego Union-Tribune have not endorsed a Democrat candidate for 75 years. This year, they have all written articles endorsing Clinton.
In the face of some opposition from Republican party members, the newspapers have stood firm in their decision to support Clinton. The San Diego Union-Tribune explains, “This paper has not endorsed a Democrat for president in its 148-year history. But we endorse Clinton. She’s the safe choice for the U.S. and for the world, for Democrats and Republicans alike.” The Arizona Republic has not endorsed a Democrat nominee in 120 years, but they spoke up for Clinton because they think, “Clinton has the temperament and experience to be president. Donald Trump does not.” Other quotes in favor of Clinton include the Los Angeles Times writing, “Hillary would make a sober, smart and pragmatic president. Donald Trump would be a catastrophe,” and the Cincinnati Enquirer stating, “In these uncertain times, America needs a brave leader, not bravado. Real solutions, not paper-thin promises.”
It is truly surprising that so many newspapers are speaking out for Hillary Clinton. Many of them seem to just be supporting her because they feel that Trump would be a disastrous choice. Though this is a truly telling statement about Trump’s lack of expertise, charm, or wisdom, it is not the only reason that newspapers are endorsing Clinton. As the New York Times succinctly states, ““The best case for Hillary Clinton cannot be, and is not, that she isn’t Donald Trump. The best case is, instead, about the challenges this country faces, and Mrs. Clinton’s capacity to rise to them.” Many newspapers point out Clinton’s long years of political experience and her past as a lawyer advocating for civil rights. The appreciation for her “thoughtful and realistic” economic and political plans has caused many newspapers to break with tradition and endorse Clinton.