Dear Guardian Readers
This week, two major American newspapers refused to endorse presidential candidates in this election. The Los Angeles Times and the Washington Post both have a tradition of editorial support, but in this most important race for our country, we are committed to standing on the sidelines of our democracy and not alienating any candidate. Selected.
What do these two theses have in common? Both have billionaire owners and could face retaliation when Trump becomes president.
It has never been clearer that media ownership is critical to democracy. The Guardian is not owned by billionaires and has no shareholders. We are reader-supported and owned by the Scott Trust, which guarantees our editorial independence in perpetuity. No one influences our journalism. We are strictly independent and responsible only to you, the reader.
The stakes in this election could not be higher. Fearless journalism and an informed public are the foundation of our democracy, and to sit out this election for personal gain would be an abdication of our journalistic duties. A Guardian editorial strongly endorsed Kamala Harris as a presidential candidate earlier this week, and we are not afraid of the potential consequences.
They need to raise $2 million to maintain momentum next year and hold the new administration accountable, whoever is in the White House. Help us protect a truly free press by contributing to the Guardian today.
your,
Betsy Reed
Guardian US Editor
