We can build
an alternative
to political extremism.

We are Republicans, Democrats and those unaffiliated with a party.  We are conservatives, moderates, and liberals.  Many of us have long been active in politics while some of us have been uninvolved – until now.  But today, we agree that we must speak out about a serious threat facing communities throughout the country.

 

Political extremism is that threat.  It has fueled hatred.  It has promoted false conspiracies and lies.  It has turned family, friends, and neighbors against each other.  And it must stop.

 

We want to be clear.  We are not against principled partisanship from any political party or interest group.  We are against any extremism whether from the left or right. 

 

Yes, this is political, but it is not only about politics.  Fundamentally, it is about how we treat each other.  Call it civility, respect, or plain good manners.  Democracy cannot survive without it.  Speaking up publicly against extremism right now is essential.  Silence emboldens extremists.  The last few years have shown that it will not go away just by hoping it will.  We must do more.

 

Extremism is an issue facing the entire country.  But our best chance of influencing change is by focusing on the local level.  If more of us become involved, we can rebuild politics in our local communities.  It is possible to return to a sane and functional government. 

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We must do more than simply be against extremism.  We must act against it whenever we can.  We embrace the following set of principles to govern political conduct by candidates and citizens alike.   WE BELIEVE THAT: 

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• Political parties, citizens and elected officials should vigorously compete over values, principles and ideas, but must also find common ground to solve problems and pass needed legislation.

• Facts, supported by objectively examined evidence, are the basis for what to believe and how to act.

• No one person or political party has a monopoly on the best public policy proposals; communication and good faith negotiations are essential to the legislative process.

• The public interest must come before party interests, for voters and elected officials alike.

• Extremists of all kinds attract supporters and money by appealing to fears and resentments, amplifying divisions instead of truly addressing problems.

• Citizens should be free to run for or hold office without being threatened or harassed.

• Citizens may certainly exercise their personal freedoms, but they may not ignore their personal responsibilities to the community at large. 

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We, the undersigned, endorse these beliefs and pledge:

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•    To support candidates who best embody these beliefs – regardless of political party.
•    To urge family and friends to oppose political extremism as if the well-being of the nation depends on it.
•    To speak up and speak out publicly, with friends over coffee or more publicly in media.
•    To get involved, vote and volunteer. 
 

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