[dj-wonk]

Yes, it is an abuse of our attention and a poor choice in information presentation. Who can we contact at NYT to complain?

[maxerickson]

http://publiceditor.blogs.nytimes.com/contact-the-public-edi...

[dj-wonk]

I doubt the public editor has much of an impact, if any, on the interactive tools.

[maxerickson]

Examining whether the graphic is misleading is exactly in their purview. If they believe it is, they would be as likely as anyone to improve their standards and processes.

Of course they aren't going to get it fixed tonight if that is what you are thinking.