Principled Voter

Use your vote to protect peace. Peaceful societies are characterized by optimism, economic development, cooperation, stability, hopefulness.

Does faith have a role to play in politics? In a democracy, it does. Religious freedom is a cornerstone of our democracy.

A principled voter asks: Does this candidate value freedom? We enjoy civil liberties and political rights and must uphold those freedoms.

A principled voter asks: Does this candidate value equality? Democracy puts equality into practice.

A principled voter asks: Does this candidate preserve democracy? In democratic systems, power and authority flow from the people.

A principled voter asks: Does this candidate promote unity or division? Democracies rely on cooperation and shared vision to function.

This article is part of our Principles Matter series . (current page) Does principle matter more than policy? In a democracy, it does. ...

A principled voter asks: Is this candidate prepared? They vote to “hire” candidates who are prepared and serious about public service.

A principled voter asks: Is this candidate empathetic? They vote to support leaders who seek to understand those they represent.

A principled voter knows that democracies run on trust — and trust flows from honest communication and behavior.

Does the character of a candidate matter? In a democracy, it does. Our votes are an expression of hope in what our nation can become. 

The source of government power is the people. That’s us. That’s you. Your vote is vital, and it can be the means to peaceful change.

A principled voter asks, “How do my candidates balance the tension between rights and responsibility?”

A principled voter asks, “Do my candidates demonstrate civility and promote peace when speaking about political opposition?”

A principled voter asks, “How do my candidates help relieve human suffering?” Our reaction to human suffering reflects our moral state.