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WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — The Winston-Salem Journal is endorsing Libertarian candidate Gary Johnson for president.

The paper ran an editorial endorsing Johnson for the 2016 general election on the Editorial page in Sunday’s issue.

Education, criminal-justice reform and defending civil liberties against big government were among the reasons for the paper’s choice.

The Journal said they made the early endorsement because they want Johnson to be a part of the presidential debate schedule that starts Sept. 26.

He must have an average of at least 15 percent in five major presidential polls to do so, a number he seems to be approaching.

The paper’s editorial board endorsed Barack Obama over Gov. Mitt Romney in 2012 and Sen. John McCain over Obama in 2008.

Sunday’s editorial read, in part:

“It would be wonderful for our democracy to have Johnson and Weld, two thoughtful statesmen, on the debate schedule, starting Sept. 26, to balance the mudslinging sure to emanate from the two major-party candidates. The inclusion of the Libertarians could set the stage for one of the most exciting races in our history, instead of one of our most depressing. This Libertarian ticket has the potential to transform this race from one about insults and scandals to one about issues and honor.”

Read full editorial: The Winston-Salem Journal

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