|
To Our Readers Frank Bridgewater |
Aduja campaign misuses
Star-Bulletin’s name
Questionable and misleading claims during election campaigns are not unusual, but ones that invoke the name and integrity of the Honolulu Star-Bulletin particularly sting.
The Star-Bulletin takes its endorsements very seriously. They are decided after extensive discussion following examination of the issues and, in nearly all cases, face-to-face meetings with the candidates.
Now along comes a campaign brochure mailed by Sen. Melodie Aduja (D, Kahuku-Kaneohe) that creates the false impression that she has been endorsed by the Star-Bulletin.
The mailing (below) includes a large "honolulu Star Bulletin" (sic) and a blue star over a headline: "Senator deserves HSTA's support." Following that is one sentence on the endorsement of Aduja by the Hawaii State Teachers Association. The headline was written for a Letter to the Editor from an HSTA official. Like all such headlines, it mirrors what is in the letter -- it does not reflect the Star-Bulletin's position on an issue.
For Aduja to link a bogus Star-Bulletin masthead to a letter to the editor and imply that this newspaper supports her candidacy is wrong. The Star-Bulletin has not endorsed Aduja for state senator.
Star-Bulletin Editor
Call him at 529-4791. He can be reached at: fbridgewater@starbulletin.com or write to
500 Ala Moana Blvd., Suite 7-210, Honolulu, Hawaii 96813.