To the editor:

The 2016 presidential election is well over a year away, and there are many candidates vying for their parties’ nominations: as many as 17 Republicans and around five so far on the Democratic side.

As a supporter of Sen. Sanders, I’ve made the following observation regarding the national media: Both print and broadcast only cover the candidates that will drive ratings up and make profits for their shareholders or owners.

If one didn’t know any better after watching the nightly news, you’d think Hillary Clinton, Donald Trump and Jeb Bush were the only candidates in the race.

I feel it’s important for voters on both sides to realize that this overlooking of the other candidates is intentional. While their motives may vary, it’s clear that they (Fox, CNN, NBC, CBS, etc.) want to keep the status quo. The millionaire and billionaire owners of these conglomerates stand to benefit if there is no change in the way our government operates.

While Sen. Sanders is ahead in the New Hampshire polls and closing in Iowa, all you hear about are Hillary’s emails.

Donald Trump insults women, Hispanics and anybody who challenges him, and he’s awarded rock star status.

The Koch brothers are going to pour a billion dollars into the campaign to aid the Republican of their choice. Somebody will owe somebody.

Clearly there is something very wrong with the media in our country. I would urge readers to do their own homework on the candidates and to be objective.

For me it’s Bernie; his record stands for itself. That said, get involved, do your homework, and pick your candidate.

If you’re not registered, do so; it’s easy. If you can’t do that, please don’t complain about the government, your taxes, the economy or anything else.

This democracy will only work if a majority of citizens get involved and participate; otherwise the 1 percent who control 90 percent of the wealth will get the government to benefit their own interests.

It’s time for change in the way government operates; be a part of the change!

Respectfully,

Glenn Poirier

Tupper Lakers for Sanders

Tupper Lake