This past fall, following Publications Policy guidelines, the Joint Publications Committee unanimously decided to recommend David Paletz for a second term as editor of Political Communication and submitted his name for approval to the membership of the International Communication Association Political Communication Division along with a write-in option. Strong support was expressed for David’s continued service among those who voted. Significant support was also expressed informally by members of the APSA Political Communication Section.

David has served the journal with distinction since taking the reins on July 1, 2001. Building on the solid foundation laid by his predecessors, Doris Graber and David Swanson, he has added significant new features. We are delighted that he has indicated a willingness to serve a second term effective July 1, 2004 to July 1, 2007. (Formally, his second term ends January 1, 2008, after a new editor has had six months to develop his or her new direction for the journal.) David is a steadfast leader who is well-qualified to edit Political Communication which uniquely serves as a meeting ground for the two disciplines.

David has again received important support for the journal from Duke University. In further recognition of our journal’s significance and reach, our publisher, Taylor and Francis, has indicated that it will generously increase its support from subscription income.

Strong editorial leadership is crucial at this time, as the field experiences methodological and theoretical breakthroughs, and we are grateful that David’s innovative work will continue.

Submitted by: Montague Kern, Rutgers University, Chair, Joint Publications Committee