Published: August 03, 1999
Last Updated: January 03, 2000
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Table 39 NEWS JUDGMENT "Some people think the press are justified in reporting on the private lives of politicians, because their position of public trust has made their personal and ethical behavior important to disclose. Other people feel that even if someone is an elected official, the press has no right to invade their privacy. Which position is closer to your opinion? Total Public Should report on personal lives 31'% Press has no right to invade privacy 57 It depends 7 Don't know 5 "As a City Hall reporter, you receive documents indicating the mayor was treated for a drug addiction five years ago -- before he took office. You call the mayor, who confirms the story but asks that you not write it up. Your source has given the same documents to three other news outlets in your city. Do you pursue and publish the story?" Total Newsroom Definitely 31% Probably 46 Probably not 11 Definitely not 2 Not sure 10