Selected SMC Policies

Policy for Candidate Coverage

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As a  non-profit media organization, Salina Media Connection must  navigate federal tax laws, campaign finance regulations, and platform-specific policies to protect our tax-exempt status. Accordingly, here is the policy SMC will follow while covering candidates.

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1. All registered candidates from all parties will be invited in selected races* (Kansas House District, Kansas Senate, Salina City Commission, Saline County Commission, USD 305, and other state races) and  will be given equal opportunity and equal time in a similar venue to share their views. We will strive to provide comparable, neutral coverage of candidates and not campaigns for or against any candidate.

2. If only one party responds to an invitation, we will interview that person.

3. We will not compare, rate, show preference, or endorse any political candidate.

4. We will strive to provide content that is  strictly educational, journalistic, and non-partisan.

5. If candidates are interviewed, the SMC host will ask a broad range of neutral questions.

6. When we film a speech, we will strive to include wide shots of the outdoor or indoor venue, and close-ups of the crowd.

7. If voice over narrative is included,  the voiceover or text overlays will remain strictly factual (e.g., location, date, topic discussed).

8. Views expressed by candidates do not represent views or positions of SMC.

9. Our coverage will be generally exempt from being classified as "campaign contributions" or "expenditures."

 

• Selected races: Given time and resource restraints we may select some but not all races for interviews. For example: In the 2026 primary we invited all governor candidates, but not any other race.