It’s true that the media has played a major role in the history of politics. Voters need information to make educated decisions and media sources are often the main channel through which thay access that information.
By the same token, freedom of the press plays a crucial role in giving the public the means to discover and form an opinion on the ideas and stances of those running for office..
With the next federal election on the horizon in Canada, media outlets across the country are preparing their plans to cover the upcoming campaign.
One former journalist who will be watching the federal elections closely is Nick Gamache. With over 15 years of experience working in the media and with specific experience covering Canadian politics, Gamache understands that those who work in media have critical responsibilities when it comes to covering elections.
“Debates are healthy in a democracy, and those debates depend on the right to freedom of expression and providing the public accurate, well-researched information. It is crucial that media coverage be fact-based and not derivative,” Nick Gamache explains.
“Having a thorough understanding of the electoral process and policy issues leading up to and through an election are always important factors,” Gamache adds.
Toronto-based news writer Jane Lytvynenko says journalists should focus on covering all angles of a political story, taking a closer look at not only the candidates themselves, but also outside influences such as third-party pressure groups, foreign powers, and other individuals who are shaping Canada’s political landscape.
As she explains, “We’re looking at the strategies the left and right are using to build up their bases, how they’re talking about the news, what they’re leaving out, what networks are currently operating in [Canada] and how they’re using the elections as an opportunity to bolster their presence in the country.
In fact, journalists at popular news source BuzzFeed are partnering with the Toronto Star to provide better coverage in the upcoming election.
As Alex Boutilier, a national politics reporter for the Star, says, “We had skills we could combine to provide coverage and service for Canadians that neither side might have had the resources to do alone.”
Hi there! I’m Sethu, your go-to guy for all things tech, travel, internet, movies, and business tips. I love sharing insights and stories that make life more interesting. Let’s explore the world together, one article at a time!
