This issue comes up every so often. But since we’re always getting new readers, we need to address it afresh now and again. Lots of readers have written in with tones ranging from bemusement to outrage because ads are currently running on TPM trying to raise money for Rep. Joe Wilson, despite the fact that, obviously, we’ve taken a rather negative view of his antics on the site. (Actually, at this moment there are ads running both for and against him.)
The simple version is that we believe preserving our editorial independence and integrity requires a firm division between the editorial and business sides of our operation. For the more detailed version and an explanation of the reasoning, see our ad policy (which has been in place since 2003.)
