The Midterm Editor's note: This policy is a working draft and must be reviewed by counsel before publication. It describes current practices and is not legal advice.
Who we are
The Midterm Ledger is an independent digital publication. Privacy questions: zhaoq8778@gmail.com. Effective October 28, 2026. You can read more about our mission and ownership on the About page.
Information we collect
You give us: your name, email address, message content, and any files you attach when you contact us, subscribe to a newsletter, submit a tip or correction, or request your data.
We collect automatically: IP address, browser and device type, pages viewed, links clicked, referring page, and timestamps. We use this to keep the site working and measure traffic.
Cookies
Cookies are small text files stored in your browser. We use them to remember preferences, measure traffic, and support advertising. You can block or delete cookies in your browser settings; blocking some may break parts of the site.
Google Analytics 4
We use Google Analytics 4 (GA4) to measure how readers use the site. GA4 collects page views, sessions, approximate location derived from IP address, device details, and interaction events. We use the reports to improve pages, not to identify individual readers. Google processes this data under the Google Privacy Policy. You can install the Google Analytics Opt-out Browser Add-on to block collection.
Advertising and third-party vendors
We work with display advertising partners, including Adsterra and other third-party ad networks. Third-party vendors, including Google, use cookies to serve ads based on your prior visits to this and other websites. Each ad network sets its own cookies, and its own privacy policy governs how it uses that data. Google's advertising cookies let it and its partners serve ads based on those visits. The DoubleClick cookie is one of the cookies used for interest-based ads.
You can opt out of personalized advertising at Google Ads Settings or opt out of some third-party cookies at aboutads.info. We do not control third-party cookies; review those vendors' policies.
How we use information
- Operate the site and deliver pages.
- Respond to messages, tips, and corrections.
- Send newsletters you opted in to receive.
- Measure traffic, detect abuse, and secure the site.
- Comply with the law and enforce our terms.
Legal bases in the EEA and UK
Where GDPR applies, we rely on consent (for analytics and advertising cookies where required), legitimate interests (operating, securing, and improving the site), contract (delivering a newsletter you requested), and legal obligation.
Your privacy rights
GDPR: EEA, UK, and Swiss residents may access, correct, delete, restrict, or object to processing, receive a portable copy, and withdraw consent. You may complain to your local supervisory authority.
CCPA/CPRA: California residents may know, delete, or correct personal information and opt out of its sale or sharing. We do not sell personal information for money. Some advertising cookies may count as "sharing"; limit them with the "Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information" link in the footer or your browser controls.
Email zhaoq8778@gmail.com to exercise a right. We may verify your identity, and you may use an authorized agent. We will not discriminate against you for exercising a privacy right.
Data retention
We keep contact messages for up to three years and analytics data for no longer than 14 months, unless the law requires longer or a dispute requires preservation. We delete or anonymize data when it is no longer needed.
Children's privacy
The site is for a general audience and is not directed to children under 13. We do not knowingly collect their information. If you believe a child has given us information, email zhaoq8778@gmail.com and we will delete it.
International transfers
We operate in the United States. Data from the EEA, UK, or elsewhere may be transferred to and processed in the U.S., where privacy laws differ. Where required, we rely on standard contractual clauses or another lawful mechanism.
Security
We use reasonable technical and organizational measures to protect information. No website or email system is completely secure; do not send sensitive information such as a Social Security number.
Changes to this policy
We may update this policy. We will post the new version and change the effective date.
Contact
Email zhaoq8778@gmail.com. Our contact page lists other ways to reach us, our editorial policy explains how we handle complaints, and our corrections policy explains how to report an error.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you sell my personal information?
We do not sell it for money. Some advertising cookies may count as "sharing" under California law; see the opt-out above.
What cookies does the site use?
Necessary cookies, Google Analytics 4, and advertising cookies from Google and our other display ad partners.
How do I opt out of analytics or personalized ads?
Use the GA opt-out add-on, Google Ads Settings, aboutads.info, or browser controls.
How do I request deletion?
Email zhaoq8778@gmail.com with "Privacy request." We verify identity and respond within the time the law requires.
Sources
- Google Privacy Policy — accessed October 27, 2026.
- Google Analytics Opt-out Browser Add-on — accessed October 27, 2026.
- Google Ads Settings — accessed October 27, 2026.
- California Attorney General: CCPA — accessed October 27, 2026.