NJ21st Policy on Political Endorsements, Candidate Statements and Editorial Independence

Updated: 05/06/2025

Endorsements

Since our founding in 2021, NJ21st has allowed candidate endorsements submitted by contributors and community members. As we move toward formal nonprofit incorporation, this policy has prompted serious discussion.

We recognize that many for-profit media outlets retain the ability to publish opinion and endorsements—often without the same scrutiny applied to nonprofit organizations. We believe strongly in the value of fair commentary, especially when it comes to elevating independent candidates who are not backed by the political machinery that dominates many of our communities.

To seek 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status from the IRS, we would be required to discontinue all candidate endorsements. After careful consideration, we’ve chosen to continue allowing endorsements in 2025 while incorporating as a nonprofit without 501(c)(3) status.

We believe that providing space for residents to share informed, principled support or criticism of candidates is too important to forfeit at this stage of our growth. While this choice may limit certain funding opportunities, it reflects our commitment to public discourse and local democracy.

All endorsements will continue to be clearly labeled and include the following disclaimer:

The views expressed in this endorsement are solely those of the author and do not reflect the editorial position of NJ21st.

Candidate Statements

NJ21st accepts candidate-submitted statements during local election cycles. These are not endorsements, but direct communications from candidates to the public.

To ensure fairness and transparency:

• All candidates in a given race are offered equal opportunity to submit statements

• There is no cost to submit

• There is no word limit, but statements must focus on meaningful policy or positions

• Statements are published as-is, with only minimal formatting or typographical corrections

All candidate statements will include this disclaimer:

This statement was submitted by the candidate and does not reflect the editorial position of NJ21st.

Editorial Independence

NJ21st does not accept advertising from political organizations or government agencies. All reporting decisions are made independently of any donors, candidates, or public officials.

For questions about our editorial practices, please contact us at [email protected].