I thought a it might be nice to try to articulate a simple set of principles that make it clear to elected officials what we expect of them. If you have ideas for making it better, please share them!
Of course, the second part of the equation is getting elected officials to sign it and then holding them accountable at the ballot box. Anyhow, here's a start:
A Simple Pledge
I pledge allegience to the people who elected me and to upholding the letter and spirit of the law as put forth in the Constitution of the United States of America.
I will not take any money from Corporations, through PACs or otherwise, for my election campaign. While it is legal to do so, the practice runs contrary to the best interests of the electorate and a truly representative government.
I will not accept donations, employment, or any other form of payment for me or my family members from any special interest group, either during my service or after.
I will put my own interests to the side for the time I serve as an elected official, working instead for the interests of those who elected me.