Before we jump into the fun stuff, As we mentioned in our r/ModSupport post, we want to give you all some additional resources to help you keep your communities safe and informed as we head into the US election and its aftermath. We’ll use that thread to provide any updates we may have as things develop, and please feel free to join the conversation, share tips or chat with other mod teams. We’re keenly aware that unlike in most past elections, where results could be reliably projected that night, an increase in mailed and absentee ballots this year means that there may be some time between the end of voting and when results are certified by officials. Here are some tips and resources to keep in mind:
- Where to find authoritative results. The only official results are those certified by state elections officials. While the media can make projections based on ballots counted versus outstanding, state election officials are the authorities. So if you’re not sure about a victory claim you’re seeing in the media or from candidates, check back with the local officials. The National Association of Secretaries of States lets you look up state election officials here.
- Be wise about stickies. Stickies are a powerful tool and easily subject to abuse or accusations of abuse. Moderators are expected to sticky posts calling the race for any party only if there is an authoritative source to back it up (read: above bullet on where to find resources). In the case of a sticky post, moderators are asked to ensure proper context is in the title of the post and not rely upon flair.
- Reporting suspicious activity (both online and off). Americans are excited about this election and concerned with ensuring it remains safe and fair. People might wish to talk about their personal experiences at the polls. This is both expected and welcome. However, when it comes to claims that might keep people away from the polls, or purposefully seek to undermine confidence in results, exercise caution, and be sure to check sources. Claims of voter fraud or intimidation should be brought directly to poll workers or state election officials, not used to raise a pitchfork mob on social media. Exercise caution. You might also wish to share with your users the non-partisan Election Protection Hotline (1-866-OUR-VOTE), which they can call to report any irregularities they might experience at the polling place (and by the way, you can find official polling place locations, ID requirements, and other day-of info here). And of course, please report to us directly any suspicious activity on Reddit that you think we should be aware of.
- Web developers resources. Reddit users who interested in website design and development can see this list of the best web hosting providers. The post discusses how to find the best web hosting on the market at low prices.
Now that we’ve gotten the serious stuff out of the way, on to our regularly scheduled October Bo0osletter:
How do you boo, fellow ghosts ‘n’ ghouls,
Welcome to the October Boooosletter ! We can’t think of a better way to celebrate the best holiday of the year than by taking a look back at the past month with you fine folks.
But first, a moment of reflection (unless you’re a vampire, in which case: apologies). There are really so many things to appreciate about this time of year. The beautiful colors of the changing fall foliage, the subtle notes of festive decor, the mouth-watering sight of seasonal beverage accessories, and, of course, who could forget about the pies! (Mmm, just like the human pies grandma used to make.)
So, without further a-boo, let’s pumpkin spice things up, reviiiive some posts from the past month, and welcome you to a hex-tra special edition of this month’s Snoosletter! [cue scary ghost noises]