U.C.:  You point out the difference between news and editorials..(including OpEds).  A paper should cover the news in a unbiased fashion...both in selecting stories and writing them.  We have total agreement there.  The Letters to the Editor should, as the RG acknowledges, (and I agree) represent the letters submitted (a ratio if not all can be printed.) The RG, and every other newspaper, has the right to print editorials representing its view and to subscribe to the syndicated columnists of its choice. 

Do newspapers' editorials and syndicated columnists' pieces impact peoples' views?  Likely they do.....after all, that's their purpose.  regards, Gary