The Courier Eco Latino to Announce 2026 Political Endorsements Sunday

The Courier Eco Latino Newspaper will announce its official endorsements for key local and state races on Sunday, April 19, as part of its ongoing commitment to inform and engage voters ahead of early voting and the May 19 election.

The endorsements will include the races for mayor; City Council Districts 1, 3, 5, 7 and 9; School Board at-large and Districts 6 and 8; and State Senate District 15.

Publisher Wane A. Hailes said the decision to publicly endorse candidates reflects a long-held belief about the role of community journalism.

“I have long believed that the true calling of a newspaper is not simply to report the news, but to inform, to challenge and, when necessary, to take a stand for the betterment of the community it serves,” Hailes said.

Hailes added that editorial endorsements are not about partisanship, but about providing readers with thoughtful analysis grounded in experience, community insight and direct engagement with the issues.

“Newspapers that avoid endorsements in the name of neutrality often miss an opportunity to elevate the conversation and provide meaningful guidance,” he said. “Our responsibility is not just to present information, but to help our readers make informed decisions at the ballot box.”

The Courier Eco Latino, a bilingual publication serving the Black and Brown communities of Columbus, Phenix City and surrounding areas, has played a central role in covering the 2026 election cycle, including hosting candidate forums in partnership with Davis Broadcasting Inc.

The endorsements are expected to reflect candidates’ performance in those forums, their policy positions and their demonstrated commitment to addressing issues impacting the community.

Voters are encouraged to review the endorsements and continue researching candidates before casting their ballots.

The May 19 election is expected to shape the future of leadership in Columbus and Muscogee County for years to come. Early voting begins April 27, 2026.