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The July 2 Daily Bee provided an interesting example of media bias with their front page article on the anniversary of Idaho’s concealed carry law.

The headline appears pro-gun and, at a quick read, the article even appeared somewhat balanced. There was a discussion of concerns from the Idaho Chief of Police Association who opposed the law plus negative quotes from some Chiefs. A single rural sheriff was quoted indicating it was a non-issue. The overall impression created, but not explicitly stated, was that although no problems have occurred yet, most Idaho law enforcement officials were and are concerned about this law.

How would this impression have changed had it been included that, as part of the legislative record, the Idaho Sheriff’s Association and Fraternal Order of Police strongly supported the law? Omission or inclusion of this fact creates a completely different impression for a reader. Also not one reason as to why these other organizations supported it was mentioned.

One of the benefits of owning a paper is being able to provide opinion on the editorial page which, by the way, included a cartoon making fun of media bias believers that day. However slanting articles is politely called bias or perhaps more accurately propaganda.

NICK ORIHEL

Sandpoint