A Candidate Code of Ethics
U.S. RESIST NEWS OP ED | By: Ron Israel Abigail Hunt, Rod Maggay, Geoffrey Small,and Steve Piazza | October 28, 2022
Header photo taken from: Matt Dorfman
Photo taken from: The Washington Post
The US election system, at the core of our democracy is under attack. Many politicians still refuse to accept the results of the 2020 Presidential election; others refuse to go on record saying they will accept the result of mid-term races where they are candidates. Debates are at a minimum, and campaigns are rife with lies, false statements, and dark money.
In the face of this assault U.S. RESIST NEWS puts forward the following Candidate Code of Ethics intended to restore integrity and respect for the election process. We ask all candidates in the upcoming midterm elections and beyond to agree to adhere to the following Code.
Candidate Code of Ethics
1. Abide by the Results of the Election:
I pledge to honor the results of this election contest, even if I am the losing candidate.
2. Be Transparent Regarding Sources of (and Limits to) Campaign Finance:
I will make my donors and my donation sources a matter of public record; and will abide by any agreed upon campaign spending limits among myself and other candidate.
3. Disclose and Recuse Oneself from Involvement with All Actual and Potential Conflicts of Interest, including Investments:
I will disclose any existing and potential conflicts of interest that might unnecessarily bias my positions on campaign issues, and recuse myself from taking positions on issues where I might have a conflict of interest.
4. Refrain from Making False Claims About Your Background:
I will not lie about my past record or background.
5. Display Respect for Your Opponent:
I will not slander my opponent or make false statements about his or her actions or words.
6. Agree to a Moratorium on Speeches 5 Days Prior to the Election:
I agree to refrain from making campaign speeches 5 days prior to Election Day.
Photo taken from: Stand By Your Ad
7. Commit to Advertising that Supports the Issues in My Platform:
My campaign advertising will focus only on the issues I am supporting.
8. Participate in at Least 2 Debates:
I agree to participate in at least 2 debates with my opponent(s).
I agree to have a bi-partisan panel monitor the use of this Code by candidates for office and highlight any violations.