I want a pledge from Candidates which says they will serve the voters and the Constitution and forego taking any personal enrichment from their position. My hope is that many candidates will sign such a pledge, so that more Office holders are encouraged to behave similarly.
It appears legislation, punishment and regulation cannot force a few people to behave decently. Perhaps if we reward good behavior we will see more of it. And today it seems that self-seeking contributes significantly to our current political and government malaise.
Below I suggest such a pledge for office seekers and appointees:
'As I am seeking a Government Office, I pledge:
1. I will place all my properties and assets, excluding my residence and personal vehicles, into a blind trust before I take the oath of office, to be returned only when I leave the office.
2. I will accept campaign contributions from any person or organization so long as they are legally permitted to contribute and they also acknowledge that I will not support or vote in favor of any bill or procedure that enriches them or others at the expense of citizens.
3. I will support programs and organizations which affect the National Security or the well- being of citizens of the United States only when such programs and organizations are owned and managed by the Federal government and NOT placed in the hands of private businesses so those businesses can profit from a contract.
4. I will encourage that we choose all Federal employees for their personal merit without regard for their gender, race, religion, ethnicity, disability or any factor that is unrelated to their qualifications for the position.
5. I will make all decisions pursuant to my office without fear or favor in the best interests of the citizens of the United States of America and pursuant to the Constitution.
6. I will speak when required to speak plainly and truthfully. 'I don't know, but I will find out' is an acceptable answer.
I hereby pledge to do my best to follow these guidelines while in office.'
