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Vote Supression at MSNBC?

November 04, 2008 2:15 pm ET by Jamison Foser

MSNBC continues to run graphics claiming that polls close in Florida at 8 pm EST.  In fact, in the vast majority of the state, polls close at 7 pm EST.  There are similar problems with MSNBC's closing times for various other states. 

Sure, every once in a while an MSNBC reporter reminds viewers that the times listed at the bottom of the screen may not be accurate in all parts of the state, and viewers should check with local officials for their closing times.  That's great for the viewers who happen to be listening the one time an hour or so that MSNBC decides to tell the truth. 

But anyone who doesn't happen to hear that and relies on the graphics that have been scrolling across the screen non-stop is in danger of showing up to vote after polls have closed.

So here's the question: At what point does the fact that MSNBC is knowingly misinforming voters about their voting hours cross the line from "irresponsible" to "illegal vote supression"?

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    • Author by GoEverywhere (November 04, 2008 6:18 pm ET)
         
      It's not voter suppression. It's a national news source giving general information. It's up to voters to check locally... c'mon, this is silly.
      Report Abuse
    • Author by steeve (November 04, 2008 6:34 pm ET)
         
      There is no limit to the stupidity and incompetence of the media. If this went to court, the judge would declare the entire company legally stupid.
      Report Abuse

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