Think before you tweet, New York Times reporters have been told by their editors — and lay off the partisan opinions about President Trump.
“If our journalists are perceived as biased or if they engage in editorializing on social media, that can undercut the credibility of the entire newsroom,” Executive Editor Dean Baquet told the staff in guidelines issued Friday.
Times chief White House correspondent Peter Baker advised: “It’s important to remember that tweets about President Trump by our reporters and editors are taken as a statement from The New York Times as an institution, even if posted by those who do not cover him.
“The White House doesn’t make a distinction,” Baker adds.
Among the editors’ social media directives are:
- No political endorsements
- Be mindful of appearing to take sides on issues The Times seeks to cover objectively
- Avoid making customer service complaints, so as not to invite special treatment as a Times staffer.
- Always treat others with respect.
“Before you post, ask yourself: Is this something that needs to be said, is it something that needs to be said by you, and is it something that needs to be said by you right now?” advises Times White House correspondent Maggie Haberman.
“If you answer no to any of the three, it’s best not to rush ahead.”