NYT's Election Needle Returns Amidst Tech Union Strike and Divided America
The New York Times has relaunched its 'Needle' election predictor during a tech workers' strike at the paper. The Needle, which forecasts election outcomes based on partial results, is operational despite the strike by the Times Tech Guild, which represents over 600 tech employees. The union went on strike after failing to secure a new contract, accusing the company of unfair labor practices. The Needle's operation depends on stable computer systems maintained by striking engineers, and the Times has assured it will only run the Needle if these systems are reliable.