Our view: Help wanted: 2 for edit board

Not only is it summer (or at least summer-like much of the time), it is election season.
And if anyone is into that sort of thing - but not to the point of actually being a candidate or actively helping one - and has a bit of time, the News Tribune has a prime opportunity. The Opinion page is looking for two new editorial board members, citizen representatives, preferably one liberal and one conservative. We will strive for a diverse board reflecting a diversity of viewpoints.
The two new citizen representatives would serve on the board with Publisher Ken Browall, Editorial Page Editor Chuck Frederick and an employee representative from the newspaper through about the end of the year. In other words, through the fall elections. They’d participate in one-on-one candidate interviews and in public, possibly high-profile, candidate forums. And they’d help the News Tribune determine its endorsements and the arguments to be made for and against candidates while also weighing in on and suggesting other editorial positions.
And what an election season to serve. No, there’s no presidential race. But U.S. Sen. Al Franken is up for re-election. So is Gov. Mark Dayton, a host of state officials, 8th Congressional District U.S. Rep. Rick Nolan, all of our state House representatives and four St. Louis County commissioners.
Should be wild. Should be fun. And it’ll definitely be important. Electing our leaders always is. The editorial board plays a critical role in educating voters and sharing information about candidates prior to the primary and the general election.
Interested? Contact Frederick this week at cfrederick@duluthnews.com or at (218) 723-5316.