News organizations that commission polls on the presidential election and that then have their reporters write stories about the results of those polls ought to at least give some thought to the old injunction “Primum non nocere.” “First, do no harm” is a pretty good rule for everyone in all circumstances, but it is especially appropriate for those allegedly committed to the old standards of journalism. Certainly no Pulitzer judge would honor a manufactured story, especially one that misled news consumers about the real facts of any situation.

Almost all “national” polls about the presidential race are at best entertainment, however, and some are downright disingenuous and a few intentionally misleading.