With the United States in the midst of a war and facing reports of anthrax almost on a daily basis, news organizations can’t forget about reporting the “other news” that is still important to Americans.

That’s why the study sponsored by several media outlets detailing the recount controversy the nation faced during the past presidential election was merited.

The Washington Post reported Monday that a study showed President Bush likely would have still won Florida – and the election – had one of two recounts taken place: the one requested by Al Gore or the one ordered by the Florida Supreme Court.

However, had a statewide recount been conducted, the result probably would have been different, the newspaper said.

Even though reporting such information while the United States is at war could be considered unpatriotic, it was an important topic to research.

Considering the fact that the election itself was so messed up, it was very newsworthy to research the ballots and determine what the actual count should have been.

If nothing else, the study should remind the nation of how one of America’s presumed rights wasn’t handled well.

When bombing raids are taking place overseas and anthrax scares are being introduced to all of America, discussions of voter intent and dimpled chads might at first seem like a waste of time.

But it is the job of Americans – and especially news organizations in the country – to keep tabs on issues such as this.