By
Editorial Board
October 29, 2008
Editors’ Note: The Daily will be endorsing local initiatives and candidates all week. Read and consider our perspective and, as always, we welcome your letters.
The Daily recommends Dino Rossi as the next Washington State governor. In tough economic times, we need a candidate who can balance the budget and Dino is our guy. He’s smart, he’s savvy and he had the know-how to help Gary Locke get out of economic anguish in 2003.
For four years under Christine Gregoire, the budget was balanced. But the viaduct has remained in its status quo and the Sonics are gone.
Yes, more children are now insured, but she also increased spending by 85 percent within her own office.
Next year, when her plans really go into effect, the state will have about a $3 billion deficit — the largest in our state history.
Rossi, on the other hand, plans to cut taxes for small businesses to stimulate our economy, so that Washington’s high rate of failed small businesses will cease to grow larger.
When possible, Rossi plans to give the money back to us by cutting our taxes.
Rossi has a viable plan to fix Washington state’s severe transportation problems. His plans target the most severe congestion spots like the 520 bridge and I-405. He also wants to give incentives for driving hybrid cars and other green products.
Rossi has stated that he won’t cut money from education and other areas that will surely lose him votes. But Gregoire’s education plan was an excuse to throw money at the K-12 system and cut $10 million from the UW budget.
The money-throwing doesn’t fix the underlying problems our state faces, and we’d like to see Rossi make a change.
— The Daily Editorial Board
155 Comments
#1 Barry H.
on October 28, 2008 at 9:59 p.m.(UW Campus)
Wow.. Dino, really? Are we really supposed to believe that he will improve the life of students? Or people living in Washington in general?
Maybe it's too much to ask that the editorial board of a student newspaper actually know anything about the issues. Maybe we need another story about some irrelevant shiny object while The Daily continue to phone it in.
Good job guys, you just lost what little respect I had for you.
#2 Bryce M.
on October 28, 2008 at 10:29 p.m.(Seattle, WA)
Seriously. The Daily has been taken over by far-right conservatives. They even distort the facts here: WE CURRENTLY HAVE A BUDGET SURPLUS. And, Rossi's transportation plan has been picked apart by EVERY PAPER AND ANALYST in the state as completely unrealistic!
#3 Doug M.
on October 28, 2008 at 10:38 p.m.(Seattle, WA)
Are you guys insane? The Daily was actually starting this year off right with the occasional decent article on student related issues, and now you (The Daily) have all gone completely bonkers.
Dino is not going to help out UW students with either financial aid OR tuition rates. Pro Dino is anti-student. As a voice on the UW campus, you are abusing your position for a conservative agenda that goes directly against what will benefit students.
You have lost relevance and currency with students. Great move - maybe someone smart will start a paper that can outmaneuver The Daily's monopoly on press and speech on this campus.
#4 Max W.
on October 28, 2008 at 10:48 p.m.(Seattle, WA)
Congrats Daily, I hope that the first education cut Dino makes is your funding
#5 Tierney C.
on October 28, 2008 at 10:53 p.m.(UW Campus)
First I-1000 and now Rossi. You've lost what little credibility you had to begin with.
#6 Russ W.
on October 28, 2008 at 11:07 p.m.(Redmond, WA)
I can almost hear them screaming:
"This is blasphemy! This is madness!"
It's a very strange world when the Young Democrats are attacking the UW Daily as a right wing propaganda machine.
#7 Matthew S.
on October 28, 2008 at 11:07 p.m.(Seattle, WA)
I am truly astounded at this. The media is suppose to guide ideas by presenting critical analysis of candidates with society in mind, not appealing to people's self interest in regards to taxes.
You have lost all credibility on this campus, and I hope students put piles of strangers in every stand on this campus.
#8 Brittany C.
on October 28, 2008 at 11:09 p.m.(UW Campus)
It would be nice if you would research before attempting to create a credible source of your own. I'm not opposed to The Daily endorsing political candidates, but this is an outlet many students may utilize to aid in their election day decisions. The least you could do is offer them some credible information. Fact check guys.
#9 Jake F.
on October 28, 2008 at 11:18 p.m.(Seattle, WA)
Is this a joke?! This is ridiculous!! You call yourselves a student paper?! Do you have any idea what Rossi will do to higher education funding in our state?
I only hope that when Rossi cuts the UW budget that you volunteer to take the 20 - 30 million dollar hit from your own expenses. That's what you get for endorsing a person who has no respect for or understanding of higher education needs.
If your endorsement was even partially thought out, then I might respect it. But instead it was as if you had someone from Rossi's campaign spout fallacies and then called it a wrap. Do your homework next time. And PLEASE try to remember who you represent.
#10 Charles A.
on October 29, 2008 at 12:03 a.m.(Seattle, WA)
Disgusting, and utterly unacceptable. This is filled with so many factual inaccuracies that it sounds like it came straight from the Rossi campaign itself. Who’s on the editorial board? And do the rest of the staff have a say in endorsements? Do you even know Rossi’s positions on the issues?
http://www.dinorossiforgovernorwa.com/
http://www.dontknowdino.com/
How dare you use public funds to publish trash like this. Normally this would be irrelevant, but the Daily has wide student readership and this is such a closely contested election that the power to influence its outcome is very real.
I’m sending this to local media watchdog groups, the Gregoire campaign, CREW, the ACLU, and the staff of the Stranger, to name a few. In addition to the storm of complaints and hate mail you will soon receive, I hope the Daily is sued into oblivion (or better yet, had its funds revoked) for using public funds to propagate partisan lies.
#11 Aaron B.
on October 29, 2008 at 12:03 a.m.(Renton, WA)
Dino has clearly said he will absolutely cut the minimum wage, especially for younger workers. He'll cut educational opportunities, let insurance rates (car and health) be dictated by corporations, and end development of energy alternatives.
This is a guy who isn't even sure of Global Warming!
#12 Katy P.
on October 29, 2008 at 12:04 a.m.(UW Campus)
Dino Rossi...bad for women, bad for teachers, bad for the things we value most.
THANKS GUYS
#13 Dave I.
on October 29, 2008 at 12:04 a.m.(Auburn, WA)
I too feel like I am back in middle school and hope that "opposite day" ends really soon.
I don't even know where to begin.....as a student paper you would think that that perspective you would take in making endorsements would at least consider the actual impact a candidate would have on students.
Cutting taxes....hmm, I'm pretty sure that is the most important issue impacting students these days. What about the candidate's views on access to and funding of financial aid? Tuition rate setting? Funding for capital improvements on campus? This endorsement has virtually no mention of educational issues in it!!!!!
As for addressing transportaiton concerns by focusing on 520 and 405 ....I though U-W was next to I-5? Rossi is pro-roads and agaisnt mass transit. The solution to congestion in the puget sound area is mass transit - we will never pave our way out of it.
And Gregoire deserves a lot of credit for helping build the rainy day fund to stave off an even worse deficit. I sincerely doubt the same would have occurred if Rossi won in 2004.
All in all this endorsement has little and flawed insight. As a student paper at an educational institution I am simply dumbfounded with the lack of educational issues in this article.
#14 Annie P.
on October 29, 2008 at 12:14 a.m.(UW Campus)
First of all, Gregoire didn't lose the Sonics, Mayor Nickels, City Council, and the State Legislature lost the Sonics. Then you are saying that she's cut money from UW, but I would like to remind you that although we are the main, Seattle branch, she expanded UW Tacoma. And, our school has plenty of money, that could go to other universities in our state, we don't need that $10 million-it wouldn't help tuition costs. And not only do "more children have health care," but ALL children by 2010 will have health insurance. That's huge and important, don't make it such a passe statement. This is a ridiculous endorsement, I cannot believe you, The Daily would endorse Dino Rossi. I'm wondering if you all really mean this endorsement or if you are tired of getting flack from Conservative students in your Letters to the Editor. All I have to say, is what has Dino Rossi done for you in the past four years and what do you really think will be achieved FOR THE BETTER in the next four years if he is elected?
#15 CoreyAnn K.
on October 29, 2008 at 12:18 a.m.(Federal Way, WA)
As a previous Executive Board Member of the King County Young Democrats I see where The Daily is coming from!
After helping to campaign and get Gregoire into office I am dismayed at her lack of leadership, mishandling of party platform issues (like children's rights), and her inability to take a stand on her own values versus trying to make up her mind via whatever "political wind" is prevailing (how many viaduct flip-flops did she have?).
My biggest concern was her lack of help for our most vulnerable. I come from a family of foster children and am a foster parent myself. The system has gotten worse under her watch! Instead of taking care of those at risk, she spends more time, resources, and money fighting foster children then protecting them to begin with.
People need to stop blindly voting along party lines and instead need to understand the issues and records of those running for office. I totally agree with The Daily and have sent in my ballot marked Rossi!
Shame on you Gregoire to use the backs of children to climb up on for your political ambition!!!
#16 Helen A.
on October 29, 2008 at 12:21 a.m.(UW Campus)
i'm shocked. how could you
-actually want huskies to vote for a republican
-not check FACTS in an EDITORIAL
-think he wouldn't cut any money from education
-"When possible, Rossi plans to give the money back to us by cutting our taxes. " ARE YOU KIDDING???? this is worse than believing in the tooth fairy.
the young democrats are going to be at the front of the wild pack of liberals coming after you...
#17 Courtland B.
on October 29, 2008 at 12:25 a.m.(Bellevue, WA)
A state-funded college newspaper endorsing a political candidate... may want to make sure the law isn't the same as in California.
#18 Genevieve S.
on October 29, 2008 at 12:29 a.m.(UW Campus)
It really upsets me that the Daily wants to support Dino Rossi. As a part of the media The Daily should be UN-BIASED! Giving Rossi your endorsement is not right.
#19 Chris J.
on October 29, 2008 at 12:48 a.m.(UW Campus)
You've got to be kidding me.
Dino Rossi and Governor Locke left Washington with a $2.2 billion deficit that Governor Gregoire turned into a surplus.
Government spending has increased 33% (not 85) and half of that has been for increased education funding, including higher education funding.
And the state faces a projected deficit for 2011 not because of her spending, but because the crumbling economy is causing the state to bring in less revenue. Gregoire has taken aggressive action to bring the budget back into balance.
You are seriously complaining about cutting the budget across the board by 1% (which includes UW money) but you think that Rossi won't cut it even more??? WAKE UP!
Rossi's transportation plan was called "reckless and irresponsible" by the conservative Spokesman Review because the funding comes from the state general fund...which pays for education and healthcare! If he's not going to take money from one, he's sure gonna have to take it from the other.
How can you make an endorsement if you can't even get the basic facts right?
#20 Mara H.
on October 29, 2008 at 12:52 a.m.(UW Campus)
Everyone should come to the YD/CR debate tonight (Wednesday) at 7:00 PM to hear both sides of the story. Come to hear the REAL facts, NOT the ones published in this endorsement.
#21 David E.
on October 29, 2008 at 1:08 a.m.(Seattle, WA)
Wow. Has The Daily gone suicidal? Endorsing him for cutting the same taxes that fund your paychecks?
The Christian Science Monitor just went online-only due to a lack of funding; do you want us to be next?
#22 Adam P.
on October 29, 2008 at 1:19 a.m.(Seattle, WA)
Thanks for showing one last time that the daily is completely irrelevant.
Rossi is neither smart nor savvy. He is a lying crook that work for big business (BIAW) and has not interest in helping "Liberal" causes like higher education. Your endorsement reads like the daily press release from Rossi's campaign. Do you really think that Rossi will positively contribute to the UW because that is the only metric that you should use for your endorsement.
You own the students, faculty and staff a retraction and apology.
#23 Clint T.
on October 29, 2008 at 1:21 a.m.(UW Campus)
This statement alone should show how out of touch Dino Rossi is from the people of Washington State.
http://www.dinorossi.com/factcheck/mi...
Minimum wage isn't meant to be a family wage? It's your first job? No one stays at minimum wage for long? Excuse me, but I know plenty of people, young and old alike, who are struggling to get by with minimum wage jobs. Sure, no one technically stays at minimum wage for long, but the reality is that a dollar or two above minimum wage is still minimum wage.
I would respect your endorsement more if it were based on actual fact. There are real reasons that Gregoire is less than stellar, and there are real (if scant) places where Rossi isn't a terrible candidate. Unfortunately, your argument brings up none of these points, instead repeating the Rossi campaign line, attacking Gregoire with statements that simply are not fact.
#24 Alper S.
on October 29, 2008 at 1:38 a.m.(Seattle, WA)
Dino Rossi is so wrong for students in terms of transportation. He's flat out against Sound Transit improvement of the light rail system and wants to pour everything into roads, almost opposite of Gregoire. :(
#25 Tim H.
on October 29, 2008 at 1:41 a.m.(Seattle, WA)
Dear God.
This is a horribly researched, unexamined endorsement that fails to actually take time and think about what it is saying, let alone consider the potential consequences.
Not that I blame the editorial staff for doing this. They have a long and storied tradition of hiring kneejerk know-nothing writers to do their editorial-page political squabbling. And now we see the result: they endorse a slick-talking former real estate agent who claims credit for one highly overrated accomplishment from his time in the state senate, without bothering to look at his stances on virtually any issue. Great, guys. Well played.
Let's be clear here. You are responsible for making an endorsement that reflects the general concerns and beliefs of the student body that reads you. This being the case, let's ACTUALLY look at Rossi's stances on a few things:
1. Completely against abortion, to the point of lifting the requirement on pharmacies to carry emergency contraception. Money quote: it would be like "forcing Safeway to carry my favorite brand of sport drink." You think this is how the vast majority of UW students feel?
2. Would effectively destroy mass transit in Washington state. Rossi is a road-developer's dream, but a commuter's nightmare. Think once again about where UW students' interests lie. Come on. I know it might hurt but I know you can do it.
3. He still questions whether or not man has an impact on global warming. Is the editorial board of the Daily seriously getting duped into believing that a guy with his head in the sand over the real causes of global warming actually cares about hybrid cars and alternative transit options? Seriously?
The list, of course, goes on.
Look, I watched the debate. And if I didn't know better, I would say Rossi is a stronger candidate. He's more likable, he has better quips, and he tells a mean anecdote. I bet he'd be a blast to play golf with. Furthermore, he has the fortune of debating a woman who doesn't have a very likable personality and couldn't deliver a one-liner to save her life. Of course, I happen to know better. I know that voting on personality instead of intelligence got us Bush. Twice. I know that Rossi's favorite book is "Treason" by Ann Coulter. That right there should be enough to convince anyone that he's going to be the last person to govern in a bipartisan manner. And while I may not feel like I want to attend a potluck with Christine, I know she reflects my values, and more importantly, the values of the majority of UW students, far more than Reno Casino Dino. It should be blatantly obvious to even a casual observer with the most cursory overview of the UW student body that to support a guy who opposes gay rights, reproductive rights, stem cell research, child healthcare and mass transit, is to fly in the face of the most commonly held values of our demographic. And that, you incompetent hacks, is why this endorsement is an absolute joke.
#26 Charles A.
on October 29, 2008 at 1:57 a.m.(Seattle, WA)
To follow up on my previous comment, I've sent this article to a number of local watchdog groups and the Gregoire campaign to investigate the use of state funds to make political endorsements and propagate disinformation.
Also sent to the staff of the Stranger for the purpose of ridicule and derision.
Enjoy.
#27 Josh J.
on October 29, 2008 at 6:24 a.m.(Seattle, WA)
The sad part is that, point by point, the Daily's endorsement literally doesn't have a leg to stand on.
* The Sonics were a bunch of spoiled babies who took their toys and went home because the City of Seattle wouldn't build a half-billion dollar stadium on our dime. In the same endorsement that mentions a $3 billion deficit, do you seriously mean to suggest Gregoire should have sunk us even deeper into debt to bail the Sonics out?
* Washington's budget shortfall was caused by the economic downturn. How does Rossi plan to magically fix this when reducing business taxes will reduce state income?
* Rossi wants an 8-lane bridge through the state's most affluent suburbs. Only an idiot thinks that won't grind to a halt due to legal challenges from Medina. In fact, both candidates might as well be saying "I have this totally unrealistic pipe dream for 520 that's going to die a painful death in the courts."
* Rossi cannot and will not explain how one balances a budget by cutting taxes and passing new tax credits in a recessionary economy without touching education or state services. That's because it's impossible. Hidden just below the surface of his grossly irresponsible crowing is the necessity to slash the state budget to compensate for his economic recklessness.
The Daily's endorsement was written by idiots, for idiots. Dino Rossi is a cocksure, smarmy moron who's running for office on quips. Gregoire may not charismatic, but at least she's realistic.
#28 Kristin C.
on October 29, 2008 at 7:24 a.m.(Seattle, WA)
I totally get it! The editorial board only has so much space, and they know that by endorsing Rossi they can get pages and PAGES full of comments deftly explaining why he's totally bad for UW students!
This would be GREAT if there wasn't that pesky print part. But maybe that's a self-correcting problem; when budget cuts come to UW the Daily can get to be first in line.
Unbelievable.
#29 Ryan M.
on October 29, 2008 at 8:19 a.m.(Seattle, WA)
Editorial board FAIL!
Rossi makes no mention of higher education as part of his education platform.... why would a college paper serving college students endorse a candidate who makes no mention of college affordability for college students?
Also, Rossi is testifying in court today for accusations of illegal campaign finance activity... perhaps the editorial should have waited until Rossi is finished being disposed.
#30 clay O.
on October 29, 2008 at 8:21 a.m.(UW Campus)
if you're outraged by the editorial, please donate to help re-elect chris gregoire: http://www.chrisgregoire.com
#31 Nicko F.
on October 29, 2008 at 8:48 a.m.(Bellevue, WA)
In tough economic times, we need a balanced budget? Nobel prize winning economist Paul Krugman disagrees with the Daily, saying that state budget cuts will only propel our current economic crisis.
And when did accounting exercises become a priority over supporting loans for tuition, protecting minimum wage jobs, and supporting the public transit system on which college students rely? Balancing the budget should not trump the needs of Washingtonians!
From my experience with the Daily, I know they have some great writing and research talent. I hope your editorial team revisits this endorsement after doing some deeper research and fact checking.
#32 Chiho L.
on October 29, 2008 at 9:09 a.m.(Bellevue, WA)
As a former university Trustee, student government leader and Young Democrats President (WWU) I have had the chance first hand to see how dedicated Governor Gregoire is to education and young people's issues. I am shocked that more college students do not realize this.
As a Trustee I had the chance to work with her office on our budget and she has been a very very strong supporter of college funding and student resources. If this is an important issue for you, then you should vote for Gregoire.
#33 Michael B
on October 29, 2008 at 9:32 a.m.(Seattle, WA | Unverified Name)
What a joke, way to keep your head in the sand. One can only hope the rest of the state disagrees with you.
If Dino gets elected I don't want to hear a peep out of your "Rants and Raves" or "Free Speech Friday" about Seattle traffic or tuition rates. You've made your bed, now sleep in it.
#34 Phillip S
on October 29, 2008 at 9:36 a.m.(Renton, WA | Unverified Name)
"You own the students, faculty and staff a retraction and apology."
#35 blanky
on October 29, 2008 at 9:55 a.m.(Seattle, WA | Unverified Name)
Do you have a written/audio record of the meetings/conversations in which you talked about who you were going to endorse? They might be funny to go over.
"Dude, this guy grew up on powdered milk!"
"Shit, that's coo'. Guess what? I read that the old woman forced the Sonic players *at gunpoint* to board a bus and head to OKC! That's crazy man, we can't be voting for her."
"Yeah no, way. Dino's smile is nicer too. Hey wanna go to Earl's?"
"Yeah, cool!"
#36 Will A.
on October 29, 2008 at 10:12 a.m.(Seattle, WA)
This is totally insane. Somebody must have flipped out at the Daily ....
#37 Dani F.
on October 29, 2008 at 10:13 a.m.(Seattle, WA)
Seriously??
Governor Gregoire provided more higher education funding than any other governor. We need a governor who understands that education is a priority!! Rossi's record? In the State Legislature he undermined a voter mandate and made sure that teachers did not receive raises.
If that doesn't tell you enough about his values, he is also anti-choice & anti-birth control.
Rossi is completely out of touch with Washington voters & Washington values.
#38 Anne M.
on October 29, 2008 at 10:15 a.m.(Seattle, WA)
Seriously? Are you stupid.
Governor Gregoire invested more money to higher education - that's classrooms, research, facilities and scholarships than any gov in WA history. She made education from pre-K through higher ed her top priority, although clearly more is needed in order to get the people who run this rag of a paper to, you know, like read, and research and stuff.
#39 Zeph
on October 29, 2008 at 10:21 a.m.(UW Campus | Unverified Name)
You are all out of your minds. Since when WHEN has a republican in control of anything resulted in sound financial practices? Name one. Please. I beg you. Funny that you endorsed Prop 1, but now endorse Rossi who is rabidly anti transit. I give you a failing grade in journalism. Time to switch your major.
#40 Liz W.
on October 29, 2008 at 10:21 a.m.(UW Campus | Unverified Name)
HAHAHAHA, oh wow, this is hysterical. Good luck with this, The Daily ... you guys have seriously screwed yourselves over, and you will be left red-faced after the primaries.
How could you possibly think that in this economic crisis that cutting taxes is going to do us any good? Where is Rossi's administration going to get the funding to get us out of this deficit, exactly? Thin air? China? Perhaps Rossi's started a money tree orchard in his back yard ...
HAHAHA, I'm sorry, I can't stop laughing. You guys really made my day.
#41 Sara Drescher
on October 29, 2008 at 10:39 a.m.(UW Campus | Unverified Name)
Are you sure you made the right call here? Dino Rossi wants to lower minimum wage, which will hurt more college students than cuts in university funding under Gregoire. (Don't forget that that would have a cascading effect. If you make $2 over minimum wage, your wage will go down as well.) He also would like to restrict access to birth control. Tell me, Daily editors, have you never used contraceptives? And Gregoire's investments in K-12 education and children's healthcare certainly can't be condemned by anyone with a conscience. It might not help you specifically--but do you have younger siblings, or plan on have kids someday? He also opposes expansion of gay rights. How would you justify that to our campus GLBTQ organizations? And supporting someone who opposes gun control seems particularly insensitive in light of the on-campus shooting of Rebecca Griego in 2007. It's perfectly fine if you personally support Rossi, but I think that as a University newspaper, you should probably base your endorsements on what is best for most of the university community. It doesn't seem like you did that. Hopefully you can print an article explaining your rationale for this decision, or, if your research turns out not to support this conclusion, recanting it.
#42 Ornella
on October 29, 2008 at 10:48 a.m.(Seattle, WA | Unverified Name)
Dear Daily,
Yes, a balanced budget is an important and vital thing in state's government, but there are definitely more important things.
For example, Dino Rossi has already said that he will lower the states minimum wage. As students, and with some of us working to support ourselves and pay for college, this is a terrible idea. We are already struggling poor college students, yet the Daily wants to support a candidate that will take more money away from us? Also, Dino Rossi voted against Take Charge, a program that allows low-income women (i.e. most college students) the ability go get free birth control and annual exams for one year. This leaves so many women at risk, but Rossi went as far as to vote to make it so insurance companies can deny any contraceptive claim. That means every one would have to pay out of pocket for birth control, and with our lowered minimum wage, this would lead to a huge increase in unwanted pregnancies. Rossi also voted to deny unemployment benefits to victims of domestic abuse, which makes this an even more ironic endorsement with SARIS’ strong presence on campus.
So yes, Daily, you want a candidate that will give us a balanced budget, but what about a candidate that will look out for our best interest as young adults and students?
#43 Laura D.
on October 29, 2008 at 10:48 a.m.(Seattle, WA | Unverified Name)
"He's smart, he's saavy..."
Really? Seriously? Are we thinking of the same Dino Rossi here?
This endorsement is ridiculous and laughable. The comments posted, however, make reading it worthwhile. I hope the editorial board is proud of itself.
#44 Chris
on October 29, 2008 at 11:15 a.m.(Seattle, WA | Unverified Name)
The Daily has produced some great journalists and a few terrible ones. As a alumni and former student activist, it's sad to see you lose your spine so soon.
#45 Will S.
on October 29, 2008 at 11:21 a.m.(UW Campus | Unverified Name)
This is the funniest thing I've read on The Daily. Not the endorsement, but the comments. Liberals claim to be tolerant, but when it comes to The Daily disagreeing with them (by endorsing a candidate they don't support) they go absolutely berserk. Keep it up guys - the more attention you give this, the more publicity this endorsement will get, which is good for Dino.
#46 Dave I.
on October 29, 2008 at 11:32 a.m.(UW Campus)
ok - I thought I was done commenting but I have to say I might have been able to respect the decision a little more if an analysis of the candidate's educational position and impact on students was included.......and I know you know how to do this because you did it on the VERY NEXT PAGE for the presidential candidates in the print version.
Why would you think it appropriate to do this in one instance and not in the other?
#47 Bianca
on October 29, 2008 at 11:33 a.m.(UW Campus | Unverified Name)
It's not a matter of going berserk or being intolerant, it's expecting that our school newspaper would represent the interests of the MAJORITY of the student body, which, unfortunately for conservatives and the College Republicans, IS liberal.
#48 Kristin C.
on October 29, 2008 at 11:47 a.m.(UW Campus)
Bianca, agreed. Yet another example of how Republicans are out of touch, despite having the luxury of a voice.
#49 Katie S.
on October 29, 2008 at 11:49 a.m.(UW Campus | Unverified Name)
Geez guys, can't we all just get along??
#50 Kristin C.
on October 29, 2008 at 11:50 a.m.(UW Campus)
Katie, not when basic civil rights like whether I can make a choice about sprogging kids or can make a living wage are at stake.
#51 Alex D
on October 29, 2008 at 11:57 a.m.(UW Campus | Unverified Name)
Are you serious?
#52 Liz W.
on October 29, 2008 at 12:06 p.m.(UW Campus | Unverified Name)
Will S - "I'm a Republican! I'm an outsider at UW! Liberals are so intolerant!"
Buddy, for your information, I voted for 5 Republicans on my absentee ballot. It's not about party, it's about the candidate, and Dino Rossi is a poor excuse for one. Do your research before you blame this on liberal bias. And get off your Republican high horse.
#53 Dubya
on October 29, 2008 at 12:23 p.m.(Seattle, WA | Unverified Name)
The daily has more common sense than the students at UW.
Tax and spend liberals don't belong in Washington State government anymore.
Dino Rossi is the change that we need.
Dino Rossi polls better with young Obama supporters than Gregoire does, so get ready to elect a Governor Rossi on Tuesday.
#54 Jonathan C.
on October 29, 2008 at 12:26 p.m.(Austin, TX | Unverified Name)
Do we get to find out who the Daily Editorial Board even IS, or are we instead supposed to just accept this as gospel? Also, what is Rossi's record on following through with his proposals? In my experience as a journalist who covered him when he was a State Senator, it was not particularly good...
#55 Jenny R.
on October 29, 2008 at 12:39 p.m.(UW Campus | Unverified Name)
To blame the governor for all of the state's economic woes is pretty baseless...have you looked at the national economy lately?? That's the true legacy of Bush's trickle-down economics: the bill trickles down to us. We've seen the effects of conservative "fiscal responsibility," and frankly I'm not willing to take a chance on that in my home state. I'm saddened that The Daily has taken such a turn and will now be reading it even less often than I did before.
#56 Gabe
on October 29, 2008 at 12:43 p.m.(UW Campus | Unverified Name)
I honestly couldn't believe this when I read it. Regardless of my own political views, I would have hoped that a university newspaper would either try to remain neutral on a campaign since it represents such a diverse population, or that it would have at least founded an endorsement on the political leanings on campus rather than the opinions of a few board members.
#57 Katie S.
on October 29, 2008 at 12:45 p.m.(Spokane, WA | Unverified Name)
Re Genevieve's comment (#19)...the Daily's endorsement is part of the OPINION section...editorials, staff or otherwise in newspapers are considered separate from objective news reporting. Every newspaper endorses candidates during election season - it doesn't throw their objectivity out the window. The Seattle Times recently endorsed Rossi for governor btw...
#58 Sabrina B.
on October 29, 2008 at 12:59 p.m.(Bremerton, WA | Unverified Name)
The Daily is clearly out of step with both the university and its students. Even yesterday, October 28th, the UW poll predicted a win for Governor Gregoire this year which also predicted previous wins for Gregoire, Maria Cantwell and other bi-partisan successes.
#59 Alan S.
on October 29, 2008 at 1 p.m.(None, None | Unverified Name)
This makes me laugh. You guys can't stand it. The majority of college students on this campus (and across this state) are voting for Dino Rossi. Rossi polls with Obama with the students in this state. Gregoire polls around McCain levels. Take that to the bank. The Daily in turn, endorsed the candidate who represents the views of MOST of the UW students. Obama will bring "change" to DC and Rossi will bring "change" to Olympia. Deal with it. Gregoire has been in government for 39 years. No change there. By the way, we WILL have a deficit by the end of the fiscal year. That is not disputed. Sure right now we have a surplus, but that money is tied up in debt we will take on in the next few months. You've had a Democrat governor for the last 28 years. Don't blame Republicans for the mess they made.
How does it feel to have the highest failed business rate in the country? Business don't survive because the taxes are extremely high. What about the second highest gas tax in the nation? The home foreclosure rate in Washington is twice the national average. I could go on and on THE LIST OF PROBLEMS IS ENDLESS...Thanks Gregoire.
#60 Adrian W.
on October 29, 2008 at 1 p.m.(None, None | Unverified Name)
UW students, or at least the ones commenting on here, are plain stupid. A liberal newspaper endorses a Republican based on actual analysis of the candidates' positions, and you idiots criticize it for being too conservative?
Some of you other idiots criticize it for endorsing a candidate? Have you guys read a real newspaper recently?
#61 Erin K.
on October 29, 2008 at 1:04 p.m.(Portland, OR | Unverified Name)
The Daily should be ashamed. Not only is there no credible reasons for this endorsement outlined in the article, it doesn't reflect the greater UW student body.
#62 Dick M.
on October 29, 2008 at 1:13 p.m.(Seattle, WA)
AWOL Bush decides not to obey the law
NOTE: What else is new. See the enclosed history of the years that the US nazis within DOJ have been ignoring the law:
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/10/25/was...
US Justice Department covered-up drug trafficking
SUMMARY of those who covered up investigations or fail to prosecute and witnesses accusing them of the cover ups
US Customs Attaché to Thailand, Joe Jenkins and an unknown named CIA Officer, US v Liang Sae Tiew, et al. – July 1971
– witness/accuser: DEA agent Michael Levine
US Attorney Asa Hutchinson for Fort Smith, Arkansas (1982 to October 1985) and US Attorney J. Michael Fitzhugh and US Secretary of the Treasury Nicholas F. Brady – US v Berry Seal - end of 1982 thru 1985.
- witnesses/accusers: IRS Agent William "Bill" C. Duncan, Louisiana State Police sergeant Jack Crittendon, Arkansas state police investigator Russell Welch, Arkansas State Attorney General Bryant in 1991, Former Arkansas Supreme Court Justice Jim Johnson, Terry Reed and Jim Nugent,
Related case: Arkansas State Medical Examiner, Dr. Fahmy Malak, Arkansas State Attorney General’s office, Gary Arnold, Saline County, AR grand jury investigator Dan Harmon, Assistant US Attorney in Arkansas Bob Govar, US.Attorney in Arkansas Chuck Banks, Iay Campbell, and Kirk Lane – case of murders of Kevin Ives, 17, and Don Henry, 16, middle of 1989.
- accuser/witness: Arkansas State Drug Task Force prosecuting attorney, Jean K. Duffey -
Assistant US Attorney Michael Sullivan for Miami, FL. and Federal Judge Alcee Hastings - US v Roberto Suarez, et al. - 1980
- witness/accuser: DEA agent Michael Levine
For the detailed story see: US Justice Department covered-up drug trafficking
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/SomeUnk...
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/SomeUnk...
A good short summary of the above CIA drug money lanudering and banking operations
10/23/08The Politics of Heroin; CIA Complicity In The Global Drug Trade by Paul DeRienzo
http://www.thepeoplesvoice.org/TPV3/V...
"Conspiracy" just means, more than one person being involved in something
News and View you don't have to Lose, http://groups.yahoo.com/group/NewsVie...
My ON-LINE book SOME UNKNOWN HISTORY OF THE U.S. http://groups.yahoo.com/group/SomeUnk...
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Running...
and http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Running...
#63 Jed
on October 29, 2008 at 1:17 p.m.(UW Campus | Unverified Name)
Washington is currently leading the country when it comes to pretty much every issue that Americans care about.
That is thanks to Chris Gregoire. She has done an excellent job as Governor of our state, one of only a few in the country with balanced budgets. Dino Rossi is just a continuation of failed Bush/Reagan 'trickle-down' economics policies. He is a power-hungry anti-intellectual liar.
The Daily should be ashamed of themselves. Any shred of credibility they once had is now gone.
No Governor has or ever will do more for the University of Washington than Chris Gregoire has done.
Rossi has no real plans or ways to pay for them. He has never said how he will pay for anything. So much for fiscal conservatism.
p.s. You should fire whoever wrote that crappy article. They need to take a class in argumentative writing.
#64 Charles A.
on October 29, 2008 at 1:19 p.m.(UW Campus)
http://slog.thestranger.com/2008/10/u...
#65 oscar
on October 29, 2008 at 1:28 p.m.(UW Campus | Unverified Name)
Unbelievable. The Daily's April Fool's Day attempts at humor get lamer every year.
#66 Nicko F.
on October 29, 2008 at 1:39 p.m.(Bellevue, WA)
Adam S. points out that Washington has one of the highest failed business rates in the country. Is this because of taxes, or is this because Washington has so many start-ups? The high-tech industry thrives on the start and fizzle of small tech companies.
Rossi and his supporters love to claim that high taxes are causing business failures. But Forbes consistently ranks Washington as a top state to start a business. And comparing Washington's businesses to those in other states, it seems we're thriving when many others aren't even surviving.
Washington is awash in highly-skilled labor, venture capital, cost-cutting technology, and a consumer base. If a business is going to fail in Washington, its because it was a bad business - not because taxes were too high.
#67 z
on October 29, 2008 at 1:43 p.m.(Seattle, WA | Unverified Name)
here is the list of editors:
http://dailyuw.com/contact/
Sarah Jeglum Editor in Chief
Erinn Unger Features editor
Shiree Teixeira Copy chief
Nicole Ciridon Sub-editor assistant
Natalie Sikavi Opinion editor
Maddie Hall Arts editor
Kim Lee News editor
Allen Wagner Sports editor
Vicky Yan Development editor
John McLellan Photo editor
Sara Grimes Special Sections Editor
Colleen Kirsten Design chief
Arla Shephard Managing editor
here is their phone number: 206-543-2700
you should call and ask them why they voted the way they did. unless you have the misfortune of speaking to mr. wagner (who, as a sports editor, has perhaps the weakest grasp on these issues), as he isn't able to tell anyone anything, including his own opinion on any of the issues.
the daily developed this ridiculous comment authorization system because they were afraid of people hiding behind their anonymity, but they're the ones who are hiding their own opinions behind the editorial page.
#68 Christopher A.
on October 29, 2008 at 1:44 p.m.(Arlington, WA)
@Nicko F.: Washington has the most failed small businesses because it also has the highest amount of small businesses starting up each year.
#69 Anna P
on October 29, 2008 at 1:46 p.m.(UW Campus | Unverified Name)
It pains me that I am not yet a citizen and therefore cannot cast a vote against the idiots who wrote this endorsement.
#70 Clint T.
on October 29, 2008 at 2:36 p.m.(UW Campus)
@#60 (Alan S): The reason Washington State has a high failure rate of startups is not due to high taxes, but rather because we're a hotbed for tech startups. The nature of the tech startup industry right now is "start it up and see if it sticks." That's just how tech business is run right now, and has nothing to do with taxes or the state.
Gregoire may not have cut taxes for corporations and small businesses to rock-bottom rates, but she's targeted tax rebates at small businesses for the past couple of years.
Also, cf #69 (Christopher A).
#71 Liz N.
on October 29, 2008 at 2:55 p.m.(Seattle, WA | Unverified Name)
I support Rossi and I support the Daily for supporting Rossi. It's refreshing to see the Daily making a statement that dares to be different from what the majority of students agree with. I don't think the point of the media is to agree with the majority of the student population, it is to present a story, or for an editorial a viewpoint. i know it pains many of you, but sit back and let them have their free speech.
I will say this, Dino was all ready elected our governor, so let's put him back in office.
#72 Wow
on October 29, 2008 at 3:02 p.m.(UW Campus | Unverified Name)
Wow..shocking and sad to read!! I would have thought that the editorial staff would be better informed. If you think Rossi is the right direction for Washington then you really must do some more research on the candidates. As if the Daily wasn't already considered a joke!!
#73 Jessica G.
on October 29, 2008 at 3:02 p.m.(UW Campus)
who even reads the daily?
Go Gregoire!
#74 Clint T.
on October 29, 2008 at 3:10 p.m.(UW Campus)
@#72 (Liz N): And it's also our free speech to disagree strongly and violently with the Daily's misrepresentation of facts and reality, and express that here.
There may be freedom of the press, but the press has a moral responsibility to inform the populace. Repeating lies propagated by a single campaign is simply not information, it's noise. If Gregoire had run an equally negative campaign and had the Daily then simply repeated her campaign line in an endorsement for her, I would be equally upset.
Honestly, this editorial "viewpoint" would have sounded more thoughtful if they hadn't bothered to justify it by copying Dino Rossi's PR releases.
#75 Clint T.
on October 29, 2008 at 3:11 p.m.(UW Campus)
*violently -> vehemently
Forgive me, I got 3 hours of sleep last night.
#76 David E.
on October 29, 2008 at 3:35 p.m.(Seattle, WA)
#68: "the daily developed this ridiculous comment authorization system because they were afraid of people hiding behind their anonymity,"
No, we developed it to avoid spam and certain legal issues. It's been removed now, mostly due to this article.
#77 Benjamin L.
on October 29, 2008 at 3:36 p.m.(Redmond, WA)
I still think your opposition to I-1000 is ill-thought-out, but must congratulate you on endorsing Rossi. I voted for Gregoire, myself, but good for you for having the courage to make an endorsement you knew the vast majority of the University would be thoroughly against. It's good to see there's SOME room for dissent at the U.
#78 Benjamin L.
on October 29, 2008 at 3:37 p.m.(Redmond, WA)
Jessica G.: Apparently YOU read the Daily.
#79 Alex Cypro
on October 29, 2008 at 4:18 p.m.(UW Campus | Unverified Name)
The reasons for your endorsement don't make sense. Gregoire had nothing to do with the Sonics leaving - that's a completely irrelevant argument. Next time stick with the issues.
Next, Rossi himself has already said that he's going to have to put his stupid 520 bridge on hold, so you might as well take that out of your endorsement as well.
Also, we're going to have a balanced budget no matter who's governor because the state law requires it.
And, Gregoire won't cut education spending that goes to, oh I don't know....UW! You morons. If Rossi is elected low-income student won't have the money to go to college.
In all, it's still not too late to switch your endorsement to a fellow Husky, who actually cares about this school, Governor Christine Gregoire!
#80 Eric Rehm
on October 29, 2008 at 4:36 p.m.(UW Campus | Unverified Name)
Is this Rossi endorsement a sophomoric attempt by the UW Daily's editorial staff to show independence? If so, please do this over a beer rather than in a newspaper editorial.
#81 Sarah
on October 29, 2008 at 4:59 p.m.(UW Campus | Unverified Name)
Today the UW Student Paper, the Daily, endorsed Dino Rossi for Washington's governor.
This is irresponsible for 2 main reasons:
1) UW is federally and state funded, these funds go to printing the newspaper - thus using these funds to print a candidate endorsement is unethical and inappropriate.
2) The Daily speaks for the student body of UW, and the University of Washington student body does not support Dino Rossi. The decision to endorse was not made by survey or polling, but by a very small group of editorial staff deciding for UW's student population of over 30,000.
#82 Alex L.
on October 29, 2008 at 5:05 p.m.(UW Campus | Unverified Name)
A large portion of the student body was shocked when Daily revealed its endorsement of Dino Rossi for governor. The endorsement lacked any cohesive argument or logic, within the first paragraph the editorial board contradicts itself. The Daily said that Dino Rossi is the superior candidate because he would balance the budget, but then concedes a sentence later, that “under Christine Gregoire, the budget was balanced.” This is a blatant contradiction. The Daily also fails to understand the negative impact that a Rossi administration would have on higher education and students as a whole across the state.
In the same article in which The Daily lambasted Governor Gregoire's non existent $3 billion dollar deficit, (there is actually a $400 million dollar surplus), it cheered Rossi's $15 billion dollar road plan, which he has no means of paying for, except of course by slashing education funding.
The editorial stated that Rossi's tax cuts, (specifically an end to the estate tax or “death tax”) was just what was needed to stimulate Washington's “ high rate of failed small businesses” Where in reality Washington is ranked in the top five of all major financial magazines as one of the most business friendly states in the country. Dino Rossi is calling for tax cuts and increases spending, this is the same fiscal irresponsibility that led our Federal Government to a deficit so large that we had to remove the dollar sign from the debt counter, because we ran out of spaces for the zeros.
The most disturbing of all was the implication by the Daily that voting for Rossi will somehow increase state funding for higher education. Nothing could be further from the truth. Governor Gregoire has been a steadfast supporter of higher education throughout her 4 years as governor. Governor Gregoire has increased college enrollment slots by 10,000 across the state, and increased funding for trade and technical schools. Contrary to what The Daily has claimed, she has increased funding for the UW by $105 million during her tenure. She has also added another $40 million in new state financial aid, increasing State Need Grant accessibility. Furthermore, she is the first governor in our history to cap the tuition rate increase.
Governor Gregoire has been a fantastic steward of our state the last four year, and has taken to heart the interests of students like you and me. Having a governor that cares about student interests is key to keeping college affordable and of high quality. These will not be the values of a Rossi administration, and its too bad The Daily’s Editorial Board doesn't recognize that. If we are looking for a new direction for this country from Barack Obama remember a president’s policies can be hindered and halted at the state level by the governor. If you support the change of Barack Obama, then you cannot support the change of Dino Rossi.
#83 Charles A.
on October 29, 2008 at 5:06 p.m.(UW Campus)
Endorsements should only be made if candidates' are compared issue by issue, on every issue, and especially those that most affect the target audience. Source citations are essential. The lies are not only in the information given, but the information deliberately left out.
While the Daily has little journalistic integrity to begin with, people do in fact read it. It's dangerously naive to think that this endorsement can't influence such a closely contested election. The 2004 gubernatorial election was decided by 133 votes. From the Daily's web site:
"The Daily of the University of Washington is the third largest daily in the Seattle area and is read by more UW students than any other daily publication. Student enrollment is around 40,000. There are more than 30,000 faculty and staff members. 20,000 copies of The Daily are printed every day school is in session during the Fall, Winter and Spring quarters."
This endorsement is an embarrassment to not only the editorial board (which is whom exactly?) but also to the editors who approved this for publication. It's also an insult to the other students who write for the Daily; I highly doubt this endorsement is representative of their opinions.
The editors of the Daily owe the University of Washington an apology and a withdrawal of this endorsement (as well as the one for I-1000). They should also disclose the members of the "Editorial Board" who are responsible for this. If the Daily was a major newspaper, people would lose their jobs for such carelessness.
Further attempts to diminish our collective consciousness will be henceforth eviscerated.
#84 Adara
on October 29, 2008 at 5:08 p.m.(Seattle, WA | Unverified Name)
I'm not going to reiterate what was said above (other than the crucial point that Rossi in power is bad for women), but I do need to add my name to the list of the discontented.
#85 Chris
on October 29, 2008 at 5:38 p.m.(Sammamish, WA | Unverified Name)
I love Dino!!!! Good call from the Editorial Board Gregoire has driven this state straight into the ground...and also cut child care for Student Parents. This election is truly about "Change" and Dino Rossi represents the change all of us need.
#86 Katherine
on October 29, 2008 at 6:02 p.m.(Seattle, WA | Unverified Name)
The fact that the Daily would endorse such a reckless candidate for our state's most powerful position is incredibly upsetting. Not only is this man anti-Abortion rights, threatening the freedom of women in Washington State, but he has a terrible economic policy, with incredibly costly plans and absolutely no way to get money for them. Besides the fact that he is currently being investigated by our state for fraud. This newspaper is failing at correctly informing it's readers and I will no longer be one.
#87 Chaim E.
on October 29, 2008 at 6:04 p.m.(Seattle, WA | Unverified Name)
The only thing that comes to mind is shock and disbelief. I know that we live in pretty conservative times because everyone's afraid of death and taxes. But seriously, Rossi? You've got to be out of your minds. I for one would not like to encourage pollution by building more lanes, and I don't want someone who thinks public health care for children and raises for their teachers are excessive spending. Public transportation is cheaper per head and that's the way Gregoire will go. She's also more savvy on issues of social justice.
I usually stay out of debates about birth control and abortions because I'll probably never use either, but I've always loved 2pac's quote: "Since a man can't make one, he has no right to tell a woman when and where to create one."
That includes Rossi.
Chaim
#88 nkads
on October 29, 2008 at 6:18 p.m.(Seattle, WA | Unverified Name)
This article is entirely inaccurate. I will not go into the reason because they have been stated above. I would just like to state how terribly disappointing this endorsement is. One can be expected to buy Rossi's distortions of the truth and facts. The only thing will restate in regards to this mistake is in regards to the American economy. The American economy, as any informed person should know, is in shambles. This is clearly a result of Bush's trickle-down tax plan. In short, I fail to see any reason, whatsoever, that one should endorse and support the same party that is responsible for one of the worst economic states in our nation's history. (Though I recognize my lack of detail in these assertions, one can look at the American reputation and crippling economy and would have to come to the conclusion that the Republican Party is responsible for this state. To argue that Democratic Party is responsible for such a state would be a violation of Ockham's Razor. In other words, would be extremely irrational.)
#89 Keith O.
on October 29, 2008 at 6:20 p.m.(UW Campus)
In the race for governor, everyone is talking about state taxes. I wish a candidate would have the balls to stand up and say, I support leaving your taxes where they are. The services provided by the state such as transportation and education are all very important to us and I think we need to continue paying moderate taxes to adequately fund these programs that are so important. Fixing things requires money, and with people feeling like our roads and schools need a face-lift, as tax payers we have to open our pocketbooks. Voodoo economics don't work, so if you want improvements to our state take a stand and accept that your taxes are an investment in these essential services that only the state can provide.
#90 Alex K.
on October 29, 2008 at 6:34 p.m.(Morristown, NJ)
I picture the editorial board, sitting cooped up in their poorly-ventilated Communications Bldg office, remembering the glory of their "Death Cab for Cutie"-laden high school journalism days when they were licensed by their teachers to be as cynical as possible about as much as possible. And last night, in a moment of complete capitulation to their own delusions of being an 'edgy' campus newspaper, they fulfilled their completely predictable and boring role of eschewing politics, economy, justice, and any other semblance of 'following' something - indeed, they eschew reason because then they'd be 'sellouts' and would have to suffer the indignant mockery of their own anti-establishment egos.
Two quotes from the piece:
"When possible, Rossi plans to give the money back to us by cutting our taxes."
"...Gregoire’s education plan was an excuse to throw money at the K-12 system and cut $10 million from the UW budget."
I'm not sure who is on this editorial board, but apparently they're willing to call a tax cut "giving money back to us" while investing in K-12 education is... "throwing money"?
Just one of many fallacies in this poorly thought-out "endorsement".
So sad to think that I used to pick up The Daily every morning on my way out of McMahon Hall and looked forward to the Nate Robinson cartoons... anyone else who remembers The Daily of that time remembers favorably a paper that was more interested in being a rational forum than being unpredictable. So very sad.
#91 DeusEx
on October 29, 2008 at 6:44 p.m.(Bremerton, WA | Unverified Name)
GOOD GREIF! The Daily makes one statement based on researched facts and is attacked by a liberal barrage started by one of UW's most notorious democrats "Bryce M."
The comments following this endorsement (for the most part) make me more confident than ever, that students at this university are strictly Democrat and proud of it without any sense of the realities of the REAL world. Sorry folks, but stepping off campus, you will realize that liberal policy will destroy this nation and turn it socialist!
I whole-heartedly agree with this endorsement!
#92 Sara Drescher
on October 29, 2008 at 6:46 p.m.(Seattle, WA | Unverified Name)
Hey everyone--if you don't like the current state of the student newspaper, there IS something you can do. Go down to the Daily offices in the communications building, and ask for an application to write for them. After reading this article, I plan to do so. Get your opinions heard!
#93 Josie
on October 29, 2008 at 7:20 p.m.(Bronx, NY | Unverified Name)
This is the one of the most ridiculous things that I have ever read in a while. Nothing, I repeat nothing that Dino Rossi would do in office, would be good for the people of Washington State.
#94 Ross
on October 29, 2008 at 7:26 p.m.(Seattle, WA | Unverified Name)
I am supporting Rossi for the fact that I am struggling to find a job. Helping small businesses grow helps graduates find jobs in this state. There are things that I do find wrong with Rossi, but job growth is one of the vital issues for me, and I am assuming seniors in college as well. Creating tough economic boundaries for business pushes jobs away from this state to more lenient states.
#95 Brad J.
on October 29, 2008 at 8:04 p.m.(Seattle, WA | Unverified Name)
Bravo. This former Daily editorial writer is pleasantly surprised at this endorsement. Going against the campus zeitgeist shows courage - don't apologize. It is the editorial board's responsibility to educate the student body, not be a mirror.
For those complaining about state funds paying for this - they don't. Advertising revenues pay for the Daily.
#96 Caitlin Ormsby
on October 29, 2008 at 8:17 p.m.(UW Campus | Unverified Name)
Does anyone at the Daily know how to research? If you did, instead of simply rewording the Seattle Times editorial, the Daily would know Chris Gregoire's number one issue the last four years was called the Rainy Day Fund. Guess how much extra money is in that fund? 1.7 million dollars. Dino will walk into office with the budget 50% reduced already.
I support Gregoire because I am a student. When Dino's elected his first cut will be to education so we can...what? Have eight lanes on 520? or to buy back the Sonics?
#97 Smith
on October 29, 2008 at 8:18 p.m.(None, None | Unverified Name)
I agree that the editorial board could have provided stronger reasons for supporting Rossi, but if many of you are wanting to know the gist behind the reasoning it's essentially similar to the same reason the Seattle Times chose to endorse Rossi, even though it may not have been articulated as well. Here is the article.
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html...
Basically, Washington has only been appearing to do well the past few years because the national economy was on an upswing, and now that the opposite is true, economists are predicting disaster. Basically, even if Gregoire did have an economic plan that would address budget concerns, she would never be able to implement them because of her constituency.
Rossi on the other hand would have no problem because that's what he's expected to do. He doesn't have to worry about biting the hand that feeds him like in Gregoire's case.
As far as everyone who is haranguing the editorial board for not fact checking, and then harassing them about how they shouldn't be allowed to endorse a candidate because they are state funded, you should do some fact checking of you own.
First of all, the Daily receives almost no money from the state, they are entirely funded (as almost all Daily publications must be to survive) by ad revenue. Second of all, every paper in the country endorses candidates, its the media's job to lead the discussion on the issue, and if the Daily doesn't take a stance, then they're not doing a service to anyone. As far as representing the student body goes, that is not their job. It's their job to inform the student body, and as I said before, while the Rossi article may not have been as well done as it could have been, it still serves this purpose.
The paper is only supposed to be unbiased in their reporting of news, which is exactly why this piece was printed under the section labeled OPINION, because that's all it is.
The Daily's job is to lead the discussion, and from the looks of these comments, they most certainly are.
I for one am proud to have a student newspaper willing to take risks and do the unexpected with integrity at their core.
#98 Josue
on October 29, 2008 at 8:21 p.m.(Federal Way, WA | Unverified Name)
I am shocked that the Daily would do this, it's actually kind of disgusting. Next time, you should support your side with more FACTS. There should be a change in the Editorial Board...
#99 Clint T.
on October 29, 2008 at 8:36 p.m.(UW Campus)
@#98 (Smith): The Seattle Times?
Allow me to direct you to a *reputable* newspaper:
http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/opinion...
There may be a projected deficit for next year, but as the P-I states, we've been here many, many times. The reason we project our future budget is specifically so that we never actually run into the red. Cuts are being made, and our state will stay financially healthy. To do otherwise is clearly against the interests of the state, and thus against the self-interests of the state's governor. And to say otherwise is pure fear, uncertainty, and doubt.
#100 Rohan S.
on October 29, 2008 at 9:25 p.m.(Seattle, WA)
Just curious, how is it that a newspaper with offices in a federally- and state-funded building, also paid for with my tuition, is allowed to make political endorsements?
I also notice that the full title of The Daily, at the bottom of this page, is "The Daily of the University of Washington". It's interesting that an official department of a state organization is making a political endorsement. Especially since rules forbid any purely student organization from using the words "of the University of Washington" in its name.
I'm not saying that it's definitely illegal, but perhaps somebody could explain the legality behind this entire thing.
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