When last was one’s honor considered sacred? When did honor devolve to pragmatism? When did pragmatism slip into duplicity? When did feelings of shame or guilt disappear from American politics?

Can concern with sacred honor be restored in American government? It’s possible.

It is possible to learn from the recent election. In the United States, the power of elections is still enormous. A majority vote can turn the country upside down and inside out. The vote achieves immediate change.

Likewise, an informed and aroused public can cut through the ability of power and money to influence elections by supporting a new oath of office as presented below:

“In order to fulfill my responsibilities, I voluntarily pledge on my sacred honor to refuse to accept anything of value from any source other than public funds legally offered to me, during campaigns for office and while holding office.

“Further, I will not use my personal or family funds for any political purpose. I will publicly rebuke any individual or group financially supporting my candidacy for office in any way whatsoever.

“I will meet with lobbyists only in my office and only as one way of keeping in touch with public needs. I pledge to inform my constituents as fully as possible regarding my policies on the public’s business and the reasons therefore.

“I pledge that my votes will be based solely upon my best understanding of the needs of the people I serve.”

“On My Sacred Honor” is a new grassroots effort to explore the ability of the oath to gain majority public support. For more information, follow me on Facebook: On My Sacred Honor

Hubert Kauffman, Ph.D.

Oxford and Florida

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