How New York Times reporters avoid personal involvement in politics.

Our ethics guidelines state that journalists have no place on the playing fields of politics. Of course, staff members are entitled to vote, but they must do nothing that might raise questions about their professional neutrality or that of The Times.

Staff members may not:

• Endorse candidates

• Give money to, or raise money for, any political candidate or election cause

• Seek public office

• Wear campaign buttons

• March or rally in support of public causes or movements

But just because our reporters and editors are not participating in political events, doesn’t mean they don’t care deeply about certain issues. That is why we urge them to be aware of their own biases and to consider how someone with an opposing view might think about the topics they are covering. Framing and characterizing all viewpoints with fairness and depth is central to our approach to reporting.

Our reputation for independence rests upon the public’s faith that we can carry out our work free from influence and overt bias.