Would this violate ethical standards

[Mr. X]

Is it proper to write a one- or two-paragraph e-mail congratulating someone you write about occasionally on their election to office?

In a related note, is it proper to write a one- or two-paragraph e-mail expressing condolences to an elected official you write about occasionally about their death of an aunt, whose husband brought your joy through his work?

 

[jlee]

1) Unethical.

2) That's all right in my book.

 

[Frank_Ridgeway]

1.) Don't
2.) Send a card for a condolence of any kind to anyone, not an e-mail.

 

[Frank_Ridgeway]

Or a letter. Something with a postage stamp on it. An e-mail is too informal to acknowledge someone's death.

 

[SixToe]

1. I would not, but follow your conscience.



2. Send a hand-written note, on nice stationery, in a nice envelope. Spend a few bucks for cards and matching envelopes that show you have some class.

They don't have to be the most expensive or embossed. But use something better than a sheet of white paper stuffed in a no-lick envelope you might use to pay the light bill.

 

[Frank_Ridgeway]

Or you could text. SRRY YR ANT BGHT FRM.

 

[Barsuk]

Or you could text. SRRY YR ANT BGHT FRM.

LOL

 

[jlee]

Or you could text. SRRY YR ANT BGHT FRM.

Ha!
I nearly spit coffee on my monitor, Frank. My tech guy would have been so pissed at you.

 

[thesnowman]

Or you could text. SRRY YR ANT BGHT FRM.

Epic.

 

[NQLBLQ]

Or you could text. SRRY YR ANT BGHT FRM.

Two words. Pha nominal.

 

[Tucsondriver]

Both are proper in my view. Congratulating an individual on their success is in no way an endorsement of their politics or aspirations, much like congratulating Podunk High's football coach for winning a section title doesn't make you a Podunk booster. I wouldn't stress about a condolence e-mail, but either way I think acknowledging the loss is a good thing.

 

[crusoes]

For the congratulating, in person is probably better. It's more personal, and there's no paper trail. I say that because you have to remember these are people you cover. Not your friends, and they will stick you if they feel they must.

 

[Ace]

Is it proper to write a one- or two-paragraph e-mail congratulating someone you write about occasionally on their election to office?

In a related note, is it proper to write a one- or two-paragraph e-mail expressing condolences to an elected official you write about occasionally about their death of an aunt, whose husband brought your joy through his work?

1. Don't do it ... unless the politician is hiring.

2. Agree that a card is better than an email. No ethical concerns on this one.