This is a developing summary of my core values in the context of politics and governance. These are the values that I strive for and that I seek in an elected representative.
Honesty
Being truthful and honest are critical to establishing and maintaining trust between politicians and the people who elect them. Politicians who say things they don’t believe just to get elected should not be trusted.
Kindness
Kindness and caring for the well-being of others is central to my philosophy of the purpose of government. We should elect politicians that care about their fellow citizens. Voters should be wary of politicians who are selfish, mean-spirited, or bullies.
Equality
Everyone is equal under the law and has the right to the equal protection and equal benefit of the law without discrimination.
Justice
The law must be applied with a sense of fairness and equity. People who have been wronged must have access to justice. Those who break the law must not be allowed to profit off it or act with impunity.
Freedom
The development of our society is based on the expansion of civil, political, economic, and social rights. Providing freedom from insecurity and injustice are central to the role of government.
Democracy
People have a right to play an active and meaningful role in selected who will represent them in government. This right must not be made ineffective by money or partisanship.
Principled
Following your core values whether they are popular or not is important. Populists who say whatever they think will get them elected make poor leaders.
Sustainability
Governments must ensure that we are providing a better future for the generations that succeed us. We must develop systems to last and protect our environment and resources for the future.