Stop the hype, distortions and misinformation.

Want to discuss politics?

Before starting an argument, think carefully about what would change your mind, and then ask others what would change their mind.

Can't Decide Who to Vote For?

Step back and consider the office the candidates are competing for.

• What are the routine duties?
• What's the most important decision or action that might be required?
• What's the worst that could happen following a bad decision or inaction?
• How will decisions be made?
• What knowledge or experience is important for making good decisions?
• How will they distinguish good advice from bad advice?
• Who else will be consulted?
• Who else must approve decisions?
• How will conflicts be resolved?
• What distinguishes an outstanding officeholder from one who is merely competent?
• If you could appoint anyone to this office, who would you select and why?

The FairElections.org Campaign Pledges
Let it Begin with Me

If you don't like these pledges, create your own. If you're reluctant to take a pledge unless others also take it, think of it as an opportunity to be a catalyst for change, and to show voters how you'll handle difficult issues or situations.

Campaign Pledge for Candiates

1. Rather than criticize or accuse, I will ask my oppenents to explain specific evidence.
2. If an opponent does or says something I don’t accept, I will ask questions until my opponent clarifies the issue. If my opponent refuses to answer my questions, I will encourage the voters and the press ask all candidates the same questions.
3. I will not respond defensively or counterattack if accused or criticized. I will ask myself the questions my accusers should be asking and provide the answers.
4. Candidates are entitled to a private life. I won’t question beliefs or actions that aren’t relevant to official duties.
5. I welcome conflicting information as an opportunity to expand my own understanding. I will ask questions until I’m satisfied that I’ve reached the best possible conclusion using all relevant information.
6. I will assume that those who disagree with me know something I don’t. I will ask questions and reconsider my own position in an attempt to resolve the dispute and bring all sides together.
7. I will put the needs of those I represent ahead of my personal ambitions.
8. I challenge voters and the press to monitor my compliance with this pledge, point out lapses, and give me an opportunity to correct any problems.

Campaign Pledge for Journalists

1. I will place the burden of proof on the accuser. Rather than reporting an accusation, I will ask what specific evidence the accused should explain, and include the accused's response to the evidence.
2. Candidates are entitled to a private life. I won't report on beliefs or actions that aren't relevant to official duties.
3. I will report fairly, with equal quality for all sides. I will insist on reasoned, verifiable arguments and ask my sources appropriate questions. I will report claims lacking independent verification as unconfirmed.
4. If I discover a lapse in a candidate's compliance with a pledge, I will give the candidate an opportunity to correct the problem before reporting the incident. I will report the solution as well as the problem.
5. I challenge voters and candidates to monitor my compliance with this pledge, point out lapses, and give me an opportunity to correct any problems.

What Can One Voter Do?

1. Ask questions, and keep asking until you're satisfied with the answer.
2. Encourage other voters and jouranalists to ask the same questions.
3. If you're at a political event and don't get a satisfactory answer, remain standing. Perhaps others will stand with you. If you're blocking the view of those behind you, move to the side.

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Visit Professor Tangent for more on some common ploys used to manipulate issues and opinions.

Visit Bug in the Rug for imaginary quotes, quips and misstatements a bug in the rug might overhear at corporate or government meetings. Any similarity to actual persons, agencies, or events is really a shame.

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