Editorial: Striving to make an informed choice

Thursday, Sept. 3, 1998 | 11:32 a.m.

Expect candidates in local and statewide races to do almost anything imaginable to get your attention. Most candidates will try to stick to the issues but, if they feel the race is slipping away, don't be too surprised if they use negative attacks to stop their political hemorrhaging.

One of the choicest venues for launching negative campaigning is the 30-second television ad. While people contend they want candidates to spend more time talking about issues, the sad fact is that too many voters rely on these simplistic ads when making their decisions.

This is a particularly important election year, considering that all of the statewide constitutional offices are up, from state controller to governor, along with both U.S. House seats and a U.S. Senate seat.

While it's interesting for political insiders to know which candidate is ahead in the various polls, the Sun's scrutiny will go beyond "horse race" coverage. This newspaper will focus extensive coverage on the important issues facing the state and Southern Nevada.

In addition, the Sun will interview the candidates seeking public office. In those races where candidates are superior to their opponents, the Sun will offer endorsements before Election Day.

It's not easy sorting through the negative campaigning to get to the issues, but voters shouldn't let cynicism keep them from being involved. After all, the best way to fight back against campaign drivel is to cast an informed vote on Election Day.

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