The Midterm Why bylines use real names
A byline is an accountability tool: it tells you who reported and wrote a page and who to contact with a correction. We do not use invented names, composite "reporters," or borrowed identities. Freelancers use their own names. Collective pages carry the "Editorial Desk" byline.
What a byline means
A byline means the named person wrote or co-wrote the page and is responsible for its accuracy under an editor's review. It is not a claim of expertise beyond the bio, and it is not an endorsement of anything the author has said elsewhere.
Credentials and conflicts
We list only experience we can confirm. Authors disclose political donations, campaign or party work, paid advocacy, and close family ties to candidates; we recuse or disclose as needed. Our editorial policy explains the independence rules.
What a bio includes
A bio lists the person's role at The Midterm Ledger, the beats they cover, relevant prior experience, and any disclosure a reader needs in order to judge the work. Every field is one we can document; we do not publish awards, degrees, or titles we cannot support with a record. Bios are dated and updated when a role changes.
AI and authorship
AI tools are not authors and never receive a byline. A human editor is responsible for every page. Material AI use is disclosed in the page note under our editorial policy.
Correcting a bio
If a biography is wrong or out of date, email zhaoq8778@gmail.com with the author's name and the correction. We handle it under our corrections policy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I write for The Midterm Ledger?
Send a short pitch and relevant clips to zhaoq8778@gmail.com. We review pitches on a rolling basis. Other inquiries go through our contact page.
Do you use pseudonyms?
No. Bylines use real names, except the collective Editorial Desk byline.
How are conflicts handled?
Authors disclose political work, donations, and close ties. We recuse or disclose as needed.
Can I correct an author bio?
Yes. Email zhaoq8778@gmail.com with the details and a source.
Sources
- SPJ Code of Ethics — accountability and conflicts of interest. Accessed October 28, 2026.
- AP News Values and Principles — accessed October 28, 2026.
- Poynter Institute — journalism ethics guidance. Accessed October 28, 2026.