CNN in New York —. Gannett, which owns the largest newspaper chain in the U.S., revealed that its over 200 publications, including USA Today, will refrain from making presidential endorsements ahead of the November 5 election. In a statement, Gannett mentioned that although its USA Today Network will not endorse presidential candidates this year, individual publications may choose to endorse candidates for state and local offices if they wish. “Why are we doing this? Gannett’s chief communications officer, Lark-Marie Antón, stated to CNN, “We believe that the future of America is determined at the local level, one election at a time.” “With over 200 publications nationwide, our mission is to deliver readers essential facts and reliable information to help them make informed choices.” According to someone familiar with the situation, the decision not to endorse was made last year by Kristin Roberts, the chief content officer of Gannett Media. Roberts decided that Gannett Media, which includes USA Today and the USA Today Network, would not seek endorsements at the national level. While Gannett Media newsrooms were made aware of this choice, the company opted not to announce it publicly at the time, according to a source who spoke with CNN. “This was a decision made by editorial staff and had no connection to Gannett corporate,” Antón told CNN. “The belief that our corporate team affected editorial decisions is incorrect.” Gannett Media’s extensive network of publications across the country includes The Arizona Republic and northjersey.
