National newspapers cause election controversy

The UK’s national newspapers have garnered criticism from political commentators after urging voters to vote tactically in tomorrow’s election.

This morning’s Sun front page pictured the age-old Miliband sandwich picture at its centre, pleading with voters to keep Miliband out.

Channel 4 journalist Jon Snow was particularly vocal on today’s Sun front page, calling it “foul” on Twitter.

Sun delivers a new low in UK journalism: Foul front page: Calls itself a newspaper:3 pages that tell you why few want to go into politics.

— Jon Snow (@jonsnowC4) May 6, 2015

The Daily Mail and the Mirror are two main newspapers that are telling voters in specific marginal constituencies to vote tactically.

The Mail is backing David Cameron and the Tories as they have picked 50 seats where the balance of power could be tipped between two parties.

In Bristol West, the Mail Online is urging Tory voters to vote Lib Dem to stop Labour, who are tipped to take the seat from the Lib Dem candidate Stephen Williams.

Meanwhile the Mirror has run an article entitled “Keep Cameron Out”, which lists key marginals where Labour supporters are being urged to vote Lib Dem to stop a Tory majority.

In other newspapers, similar political headlines have been made. The Daily Express, whose owner recently made a hefty donation to UKIP, has a lead headline of “Why you should vote for UKIP”.  While the Daily Telegraph has gone with “nightmare on Downing Street” as they criticise any possible Miliband and Sturgeon deal.

Social media has criticised the national newspapers’ political writings.

Look at the fear in these newspapers now. Imagine their jubilation on Friday if the Tories win. pic.twitter.com/7Et356JsGB

— Owen Jones (@OwenJones84) May 5, 2015

Can't wait for election to be over so that newspapers can return to being impartial observers of events & existence…

— Robin Ince (@robinince) May 6, 2015

Ridiculous headlines in the newspapers this morning. Let's remind ourselves of some quality journalism. pic.twitter.com/h63IXTmTX1

— Dave Turner (@mrdaveturner) May 6, 2015